This library is beautiful both architecturally and an experience walking in. With a cozy patio complete with seating and tables to enjoy a beverage and talk with a friend. It's next to an elementary school which may explain the many students there. It was refreshing to see so many youth hanging at the library. Lots of computers to use and a printing station. Librarians are welcoming and I was able to sign up for a library card quickly and she showed the many digital apps that come with membership to get free ebooks and streaming services. My kids were looking for Demon Slayer series which they didn't have but they do have a larger manga section that I anticipated. Overall, it's a lively and welcoming library that I recommend. I rented some early 2000s shows on DVD. read more

my absolute favorite library in a beautiful location. the architecture alone is so unique and fun for a library. this is my favorite place to study and there's no such thing as a bad seat with all the windows. sometimes the kid section can get loud but depends what time you go. very nice staff read more

Arabian Library - Libraries Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

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Our family loves our local library, especially Story-time with Debbie! Her energy, patience and enthusiasm with the kids is incredible. My boys love the stories, songs, and interactive activities that correlate with the theme or letter of the day! We always look forward to story time with Debbie! Thank you for all that you do for your community! read more

Scottsdale is known for its desert, beauty, arts, and just so many things to do. The Scottsdale Library system combines all of these things in each of its locations. The Arabian Library Branch is like entering a desert fortress. It seems both hidden behind walls as well as being bright and open. The building is a work of art. Between the design and the light streaming in its a lively place to sit and read or study. (Warming, it gets a bit chaotic when the school next door gets out early on Wednesdays and the kids stream in.) The children's area is pretty big and separated well from the stacks. They offer many programs for kids and adults. The day I stopped in, they had a show and tell for anyone to bring in unique vintage items from their home and share the story of it. Stop by just to take it all in. Get a free library card. Join in a gathering or program. Libraries are cool. read more

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I think I had been here once like 10 years or so ago when I lived in the area but hadn't been back! Came here with my 14 month old and forgot how nice it was! Good selection, very pretty architecture. Love that there's a whole play area for kids with plenty of toys, my son took advantage of that for sure! Really nice library and well kept, we will be back for sure. read more

PROS: beautiful architectural space, staff is friendly and helpful, courtyards are pleasant CONS: not a quiet space (there were many kids and loud adults when I visited. I kept changing locations attempting to find peace so I could work but eventually had to leave the library), dirty (there was trash scattered throughout the library), the back of the library is very dark and cave-like, outlets are not an easy find read more

Arabian Library - Libraries Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

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Love this library. I spend a lot of time here helping my son with his homework. They offers big variety of DVDs, CDs, books and magazines. Plenty computers to use for everyone and plenty of parking spaces. I love the high ceiling and the layout of each section. We really enjoy the private room because it's quieter during the school year. The only negative about this library is during the school year there are lot of middle school students hangout in the youth section and they are very loud. It's really distracting the younger students who are trying to do their homework. read more

Arabian Library - Libraries Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

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My favorite library in all of Phoenix/Scottsdale. From the exquisite architecture to the private kids section stocked with toys,puppets, magnets and books, this library is a dream! I take my kids to story time every week and they absolutely love it. Lots of parking and space. It may not be the nearest library to us but definitely one we frequent the most! read more

A truly impressive facility. I came in for two books not knowing this location (I normally go to Appaloosa). The staff was very helpful and I found what I wanted very quickly -- I was there 10 minutes, tops. I would highly recommend this Library to anyone interested & I'll be coming back very soon for my next batch. read more

they kick me out every day for no reason and I'm just trying to study but they also laugh at me because I have adhd and other stuff and they kinda really rude read more

Went for a quick visit yesterday and found the library to be less beautiful and less tranquil than when I visited it w/ family a few months ago. This time it was full of noisy children, both outdoors and in... I mentioned this observation to a librarian after waiting for her to finish discussing w/ another librarian how a group of unruly children must be addressed (they'd been warned twice already), and she told me that the best times to visit is in the mornings and evenings. Basically, if you want peace and quiet and a lot of productivity, then avoid this library from 220p (when nearby middle school lets out) and 5-6p (when the children are picked up by their parents/caregivers). There are study rooms that are first come, first serve (free to use), plus meeting rooms that are available (for a "nominal" fee). You may either sign up at the help desk, or access the registration form online. There is also an area at the back that is strictly no talking, no cell phone usage. It was a very nice change of pace from the rest of the library. There is a vending machine that dispenses snacks and coffee, or so I'm told by another librarian (there was also a posted sign of "SNACKS" pointing somewhere), but I didn't find it during our very quick walk around the facility. I wish there were better signage outside directing people on how to exit to the main roads. It's easy to get lost in the twists and turns exiting out, since the area is right next to a school, a preserve and an aquatic center (!!), and their parking lots. read more

What a beautiful library, let down by rude and obnoxious middle schoolers, and staff that allows that behavior. Kids will be kids, sure, and they should enjoy the local library, but middle schoolers being loudly obnoxious, clearly misbehaving, actually dragging furniture in and out the doors, is 100% uncalled for. Staff may be nice and sweet, but they are ignoring terrible behavior that is ruining the atmosphere for everyone else acting properly. ATTENTION STAFF: proper discipline is not bad or something to avoid! Doing so encourages bad behavior! Please do better! It's a library, not a water park!! read more

If your looking for a nice quite place to study or just read, DONT GO HERE! This library prides itself on being North Scottsdale's after school daycare. So noisey with kids running around the inside and outside, using it as a playground. Yes running, I can't tell you how many times I've had kids bolt out of nowhere nearly running into me or somebody else. Every kid talks on their cell phone as they lap around the inside of the whole building. One time it was so loud I couldn't even think to myself so I packed my things and went to study behind closed doors, I was quickly escourted out and told to never go into one of the rooms ever again. I'm sorry, but you do realize I pay taxes right? read more

Recently moving to Scottsdale, I was excited to be able to use the Scottsdale libraries. Lucky for me, this library is right across the street from where I live. On my way home from work I can swing by or I could walk (if the weather permits). So far, I love this library. There is always plenty of parking, the hours of operation are convenient for me, and the layout/design is great. I love the way it looks outside and the inside is super convenient and well laid out. When I first signed up for my library card, the librarian on duty was gracious enough to give me a tour of the facility and help me figure out where everything is located. That was super nice and helpful. I especially love that I can request books online and hold for pickup at my convenience. I have done this a few times now and I can either pick them up via a drive thru or inside the library. It's fantastic! read more

Free books, free movies, free mags, free wifi, comfy chairs with foot stools, self checkout, drive thru pick up and drop off, coffee, very separate children's area...ahhh....true love. First off, the building is gorgeous with a zen-like front outdoor sitting area complete with the sound of running water. It's open and airy, and just a relaxing place to be. The set up is great - children have their own area with plenty to look at and explore, while adults have their own place to study or enjoy a book in some peace and quiet. Definitely my favorite Scottsdale library, and yes, I've been to them all. Note: You may want to avoid after school from around 3:30 - 6:00pm....those kiddies from across the street can get noisy, giggly, and sometimes obnoxious. read more

I've never wanted to move in (literally) to a public facility before. D@$! this place is full of blings! It was suppose to cost $10MM to build. Finally, a place where I can go to sit on a Herman Miller Aeron chair for hours without menacing looks from pesky sales people. Free wifi, coffee bar and yeah, lots of shinny new books. read more

This is my first visit to this library since they built it about five years ago. I find it to be very beautiful and complimentary to the natural Arizona landscape. The staff here are very friendly and helpful, they easily requested a book for me from another library and it was delivered two days later, just as they said. What I found frustrating is the limited amount of books. The space is quite large and intricately designed, but the adult fiction area is extremely small. I thought there was another area somewhere, but no, thats it. The childrens area, however, is cute and welcoming. I will continue to use this library because I live so close, but if I have more time in the day I will go to the larger Civic Center Library. read more

I love this library, my family loves this library. It is such a beautiful building inside and out. They always have all the new released movies out on blu ray and dvd and if they don't have what you're looking for you can have them order books and movies from other locations and you will be able to pick them up fairly quick, I get text whenever my books are in. Super easy and simple and always have what I'm looking for. read more

It's a pretty library, clean, friendly staff and it doesn't smell like piss in a way that 98% of the libraries that I visited in my lifetime do. Why three stars? The books selection is horrible! I went to the women's studies section and there were books on topics such as "how to make a guy like you" and "tricks to a younger you". YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME! An ageist book in the feminist section? Only in North Scottsdale. Oh and there is always that one creepy dude that is using the computer to look up women on match.com. I guess judging by the ring on his finger he is afraid that his wife would find out if he uses the computer at home. North Scottsdale, I'm losing my patients with you. #wherethesmartpeopleat read more

One of the more ugly libraries I've seen in my life but the staff are very helpful. Located next to a school, there's tons of kids who are often told to "quiet down" by an elderly man who I couldn't tell whether he worked at the library or not. The staff seem to be invested in the movie section but I didn't check out any films, so I don't know how good the selection is. Printer costs about .25 a page. HAVE quarters, the library won't break change. If you don't need to park right next to it, there's ample parking. read more

Finally visited this library a few months ago. I love it! Staff was exceptionally nice and accommodating as I was there for a class assignment. Beautiful desert architecture, quiet, quite a few people doing work, and volunteers promoting the summer reading program. I appreciate how some libraries still have reference desks (ahem, Mustang) and I would come back and check it out some more. I would first need to get a Scottsdale library card though. read more

It's a nice library. Very unique in the architecture. They have security gates at the entrance which I thought was kind ridiculous but given the day and age we live in probably not a bad idea. It's a little far away from everything. Cross streets are McDowell Ranch and Raintree. Staff is nice and friendly and courteous. read more

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Beautiful place to teach my daughter the joys of reading. I do agree that there are a lot of kids here, but what better a place for kids to roam and discover than a library. Their children's programs are free and excellent. The play area is fantastic with many sensory stations, a puppet theater and books positioned where little hands can pick them up at a whim. I've seen countless toddlers pick up stories and hand them to parents for an impromptu story time. Since she was a baby, my now 5 year old, has loved this place. She's now excited about learning to read and chooses books over TV or tablet every time. I thank Arabian library in large part for that. read more

Wow, this is a hidden gem in the greater Phoenix area. Amazing architecture and a really nice vibe. It pretty much beats my local library in every way. read more

The secret is out. I am a serious bookworm and I love to visit a good bookstore or library. I recently discovered Arabian Library and I think I'm in love! It's a beautiful library situated in the McDowell mountains and it's stocked full of books, movies and magazines! Now that I'm a member, I will have the opportunity to enjoy special events such as book signings and children's reading hours and they also lend out the cultural passes so you can visit other museums in the area for free! In addition to loaning books, they also have a used book store where you can buy or donate books. I am looking forward to becoming a regular at the Arabian Library. read more

There is literally no better place in the world than the Arabian Library. No kidding, I'd rather spend a day here than a week in Disneyland. I don't go to libraries for books but mostly just for getting work done, and no place does that better than here. The ambience is just amazing. The architecture of the building is flawless and the lighting makes it easy to focus. The high ceilings and the lighting adds a dimension that is extremely comforting. There are tons of places to do work. There are different tables and chairs so choose whatever suits you. The furniture is high quality and incredibly comfortable and includes wooden tables, couches, and leather chairs with foot rests. They have speedy wifi and computers are free to everyone to use ( I am not a resident of Scottsdale nor do I have a card here). Even the bathrooms here are nice. The interior design is gorgeous (yes, even in the bathrooms). They have both outdoor and indoor seating which is very accommodating. The staff here is fantastic. They also have great sections for kids and teens and they have a little food area and shop which fit in nicely. Another one of my favorite things here is how quiet it is all the time. The patrons are very respectful and it is always quiet. I haven't taken a good look at them, but the book section is a little limited because of the size of the library, however they do have a huge selection of books and movies. This is a gorgeous institution and great for anyone who struggles to get work done at home. Come here and I swear you WILL get work done. read more

Arabian Library - Libraries Near Me - Scottsdale, Arizona

Beautiful building, tranquil atmosphere...its almost an escape from reality to visit this library! Throw in a good book and it doesn't get any better. I love this place...most new books are readily available. Free WIFI, great AC... they even have passes for free admission to museums in town! And its all free! Go grab a good book and tell them that Steve sent ya! read more

I'm glad this is my neighborhood library. It's a very unique building from an architectural standpoint. It's not large but has a nice selection of newspapers and magazines to read. read more

My favorite library! Small, cute, friendly staff. Love the classes with my daughter! We are shake rattle and roll regulars and love it!!!! They have a great kids play area, lots of events and books and DVDs for check out. Great place to come study or print things and there's even a snack area read more

This is a decent library. The building is beautiful and modern. However, DO NOT come here between 2:15 and 6pm. There are always tons of middle school children RUNNING and SQUEALING without reprimand. Just today at 2:20 about fifty of them barged in the door, knocking me around with their backpacks without remorse.... one almost knocked me over into the children's book stand in front of a librarian and neither of them said a word. They jump on the computers to watch youtube and prevent adults and older students from using any computers for actual study or work. read more

Very cool looking building. Glad to call it my local library!

My favorite study place! Amazing architecture, perfect lighting, and lots of cozy places to sit and study or read. I love this library!

Good luck finding the entrance of this library the first time. There is a sign saying "LIBRARY", but it is so subtle as to be invisible. It is made of sheet metal with holes punched out of it. Without a light behind it, it fades into the rest of the sheet metal cladding of the building. If I hadn't seen people coming out of the building, I would have walked all the way around it, seeking the doorway. I can't figure out why they do that. Is the city embarrassed that they have a library here? It's not a toxic waste dump, so I do not understand the emphasis on discretion. Other than that, I was charmed. Every detail was perfect. Outside there's lots of native, or at least native-looking, plants. Inside, you find lots of natural lighting, i.e. the sun coming through the big, plentiful windows. There's a nook with vending machines, and an overall vibe of a Borders Bookstore (remember those?). They should sell the mouse pads, which are so attractive I was tempted to steal one. Not that I would do that. Just saying. When I needed help, a notably well-dressed librarian helped me. I believe she was wearing a strand of pearls. Overall a very pleasant experience for me, although if your tolerance for the um, exuberance of children is low, you should visit during school hours. read more

I would give this library more stars but I can't because it's filled with noisy children/adolescents at all times that were not taught that a library is a place to be quiet. The staff does nothing to eradicate the commotion (neither do the parents) so don't go there if you intend to study, or have the audacity to expect to peruse the shelves in peace. There is a grade school adjacent to the library so after school ends, they all seem to head to the library. Not a huge inventory of books, but I appreciate that I can request books from other branches and they transport them here; very convenient. Short on comfortable seating/seating is somewhat limited. And they start turning the lights on and off and get aggressive when it's close to closing time. They want everyone out and the doors locked at 7:59pm. People act like it's an architectural marvel but not really my style. There are a couple of very helpful ladies that work there and it's close to home (a couple positive notes)! read more

Beautiful architecture, reminiscent of the slot canyons. The location is very easy to access and except for when school is being let out, parking is relatively easy. The collection is waaay biased for kids. However, there are plenty of computers for public use, tables and comfortable chairs to use. The environment is very pleasant. read more

This library is clean and the staff has always been very friendly towards me. But do not come here if you need someplace quiet to study or work! While the library staff states that they have a quiet zone in the back, it is definitely not quiet. You can still very clearly hear kids yelling and playing throughout the day (even with earplugs in). Also, last time I was here there was a guy skyping in the "quiet zone." Overall, great library if you have kids and want to bring them here, but not a good library if you need a quiet place to go. read more

It is a wonderful building projected by the architects Richärd+Bauer. The selections of books and videos are good and the staff is helpful, friendly and professional. read more