Kansas City Central Library Community Bookshelf
A giant bookshelf facade on a parking garage, celebrating classic literature and banned books. A unique KC photo op!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free parking & quiet
Kansas City Central Library Community Bookshelf
Best Time
Free parking & quiet
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A giant bookshelf facade on a parking garage, celebrating classic literature and banned books. A unique KC photo op!
"Very cool to see--we missed the entrance to the public parking (located on Baltimore, by the way)."
🎯 It's the Parking Garage!
Don't look for a building; the bookshelf is the facade of the parking garage!
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Great for a quick, unique photo op. Consider the angle for the best shot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Community Bookshelf Facade
Library Parking Garage
A giant, artistic bookshelf facade featuring classic banned books. A unique photo op!
Mark Twain Statue
Near the Bookshelf
A charming statue of Mark Twain adds to the literary theme of the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
It's More Than Just Books
Timing is Key for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 It's the Parking Garage!
Don't look for a building; the bookshelf is the facade of the parking garage!
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Great for a quick, unique photo op. Consider the angle for the best shot.
Kansas city Library. A Library which looks like a Bookshelf...
🅿️ Parking Perks
Parking is free on Sundays. Kids can get validated parking all day in the kids' section.
💩 Watch Your Step
Be mindful of dog waste in the surrounding area.
This library in Kansas City is a giant bookshelf of 25 foot tall books which are recommendations from the community
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 It's the Parking Garage!
Don't look for a building; the bookshelf is the facade of the parking garage!
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Great for a quick, unique photo op. Consider the angle for the best shot.
🅿️ Parking Perks
Parking is free on Sundays. Kids can get validated parking all day in the kids' section.
💩 Watch Your Step
Be mindful of dog waste in the surrounding area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Community Bookshelf a unique and visually appealing landmark, especially appreciating its artistic design and the convenience of free Sunday parking. While some note minor issues like dog waste in the vicinity, the overall sentiment is positive, highlighting it as a quick, worthwhile stop for photos and a taste of KC's literary charm.
"Very cool to see--we missed the entrance to the public parking (located on Baltimore, by the way)."
Jennifer Hopkins
"Very cool spot to stop at. Look out below though because lots of dog parents don’t pick up their dogs poop. For some reason the planted trees there & not bushes. So pretty poorly thought on their end if it was tourism in mind for this shelf."
Carrie C
"Beautiful library. The parking garage front next door has a facade that looks like books on a shelf. Very cute!"
Steven Hamblin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Community Bookshelf is the facade of the Kansas City Public Library's parking garage, located at 1010 Baltimore Ave. It's easily accessible by car and public transport in downtown KC.
Yes, the Community Bookshelf is part of the library's parking garage. Parking is free on Sundays and can be validated for all-day use if you visit the children's section of the library.
Absolutely! It's located in the heart of downtown Kansas City, making it a walkable destination if you're exploring the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the Community Bookshelf facade is completely free! It's an outdoor art installation.
Since it's an outdoor facade, you can view it anytime. However, for parking access and to visit the library, check the Kansas City Public Library's official hours.
General admission to the Kansas City Public Library is free. You can explore its beautiful architecture and collections.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunday mornings offer free parking and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photos. Weekday evenings can also be less crowded than midday.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. Be mindful of library patrons if you're taking photos near the library entrance.
Look for the Mark Twain statue nearby, and explore the impressive architecture of the Central Library itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Visit on a Sunday morning for the best light and fewest crowds, allowing you to capture the facade without obstruction. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the Bookshelf
The design is intentionally grand, meant to evoke the feeling of a real library and celebrate literature. It's a popular spot for photos and a unique landmark that draws visitors to the downtown area. The scale and detail make it a memorable visual experience, even for those who aren't avid readers.
Beyond the Bookshelf: The Central Library
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the library offers various amenities and resources. For those who appreciate unique urban features, the library also boasts a giant, human-sized chessboard on its roof, offering panoramic views of the city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit