Santa Monica Main Library...and it has books too!

Santa Monica’s Main Library, at the corner of 5th and Santa Monica Blvd, is one of my top destinations. I love reading, but I come more for the atmosphere than the books.



The outside of the building is nothing to write home about. It’s mostly a plain-beige color with occasional bursts of decorative color, but the inside is a pleasant surprise. The plentiful windows, spacious layout, and general cleanliness (the library was completed in Jan 2006) contrast with the dark, musty libraries I remember from my youth.



Bask in the SoCal sun with your favorite book by taking advantage of the open courtyard in the center of the library. In addition to the pleasant landscaping, the courtyard houses a deli so you can grab lunch or satisfy your caffeine fix without ever leaving the building.

Maybe you’re in work-mode? The free wifi, expansive seating, and relative quiet make it a fab place to sift through email. If you don’t have a laptop, there’s a big computer area on the 2nd floor where you can get online free for an hour each day.



Also a draw are the library’s occasional exhibits and speakers series. From famed journalists hawking their latest book to film screenings to puppet shows, there’s always something going on. Now through March 18, the library is hosting a Nordic Latitudes exhibit, showcasing Nordic furniture and lighting design. While interesting, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was staring at an Ikea furniture display.

The library pulls in an amazing cross-section of people, from families to old folks, giving it a real community feel. To those used to sterilized suburb libraries, however, be forewarned. This is the People’s Republic of Santa Monica, and there are quite a few homeless patrons that frequent this library. Most quietly mind their own business, but occasionally, you might find yourself next to a loud, smelly patron. My advice is to simply move. It’s a multi-level library with tons of seating so you’re sure to find a more tranquil spot.

As for parking, no worries. There’s a three-level, 530 space subterranean parking garage that costs $1/hour.

Santa Monica Main Library
601 Santa Monica Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
310-458-8600