What are the hours of operation?

The library is open Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It is closed on Saturdays.

The branch is located at 400 W. Garfield St., Seattle, WA 98119.

Is the building accessible?

Yes, the Queen Anne Branch is fully accessible.

What amenities are available for visitors?

Visitors have access to free Wi-Fi and public computers, and can use the space to read, work, study, or meet. The branch also hosts free activities, events, and classes.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Queen Anne Branch, Seattle Public Library in Seattle

Q: What is the Queen Anne Branch of the Seattle Public Library known for?

It is a historic Carnegie-funded library designed in the late Tudor Revival style. It is designated as a Seattle landmark building and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Queen Anne Branch, Seattle Public Library

A stunning late Tudor Revival landmark, this Carnegie-funded library has served the Queen Anne community since 1914, blending historic architectural charm with modern public resources.

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What to know

The Queen Anne Branch of the Seattle Public Library is a distinguished architectural gem located at 400 W. Garfield St. Opened on January 1, 1914, the facility began its service to the neighborhood with an initial collection of 5,000 volumes. The building was designed by Seattle architects Harlan Thomas and Woodruff Marbury Somervell, who utilized the late Tudor Revival style to create a timeless aesthetic. Construction of the library was made possible through a gift from the Carnegie Foundation, supplemented by a $500 contribution from Alden J. Blethen, who was a resident of Queen Anne and the publisher of The Seattle Times. The total cost of the original construction reached $32,667. Because of its historical and architectural significance, the branch is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and has been designated a landmark building by Seattle's Landmarks Preservation Board. Over the decades, the library has evolved to meet modern needs while preserving its heritage. A major renovation culminated in a rededication ceremony in June 1989. Today, the facility is fully accessible and provides essential community amenities, including public computers and free Wi-Fi for those looking to study, work, or read. Beyond its role as a book repository, the branch serves as a vibrant community hub. It frequently hosts free classes, events, and activities for the public. Visitors can explore the building's unique character or utilize the 24/7 book return box located on the west side of the building in the alley off W. Garfield St.

Visitor tips

Check the hours carefully; the library is closed on Saturdays.
If you need to return books after hours, use the return box in the alley on the west side of the building.
Visit during the week to utilize the free Wi-Fi and public computers in a historic setting.

Nearby context

Situated at the intersection of 4th Avenue W and W Garfield Street, this library serves as a historic anchor for the Queen Anne neighborhood, reflecting the early 20th-century civic development of the area.