Visit the Seattle Public Library

I had the idea to visit this beautiful library after seeing it in the movie “Where’d You Go Bernadette” by Maria Semple. The book made me laugh aloud and then the movie showed me the gem that is the mashup of books + architecture that is The Seattle Public Library.

I gave myself three hours but I only needed one.

Being a Saturday, it was hoppin’ with an eclectic group of folks. It was cool to see all that the public library provides for the community and in such a pretty setting. I carried a book around with me for about 20 minutes before I learned I’d need to open a NEW online account to borrow books from the Central Library. Since it’s all the way downtown, I don’t see it being a feasible repeat experience and with a public library less than a five minute drive from my apartment, it’s also unnecessary.

So, I toured the library with my mouth open and camera actively snapping photos + videos. It’s really a stunning library. It had me muttering to myself with excitement and happiness. The views, the levels, the escalators, the decor/architecture - the place is a must see.

And then of course, I had to become a “friend” of the library and grab up a book stack to commemorate the experience; $4 for hardcovers, $3 for paperbacks. With the underground parking ($8) and a couple of small things for my trove notebook ($4), I left the experience having spent less than $50 and believe that it was worth every single dollar.

Still being new to the area, I chose to eat lunch at home before going so that I could minimize my anxiety by focusing just on the one visit. Though it was easy to manage and the library is on Madison Street - hello, nod to my university hometown - adding other steps to this solo adventure would have likely sullied the experience for me. I was disheartened that the authors that would be at the library weren’t Black and the children’s Black book section was a little meh, but the Adult Black History Month section was legit. The elevators weren’t working and I couldn’t get my parking properly paid for and needed assistance with a line of seven people waiting for me to get my life together. But, overall, I am just so grateful I got to do this and that I did do it.

I’m still grinning as I type this. I’m so proud of myself. It just feels like such a big deal. That I did it, but did it by myself and in my way. The Seattle Public Library is a simple, profound treat. Click HERE to learn more about this gem’s history since it will be turning 20yo next year.