If you love books and libraries, then you’re going to love the Multnomah County Central Library. Some might even say that it’s the most beautiful library in Oregon. It’s an attractive structure inside and out, and it’s right in the center of Portland. This is a great place to spend some time exploring, admiring the library’s Georgian style architecture, doing some research, or relaxing in a quiet corner with a good book. Read on to learn more about it.

The Multnomah County Central Library is a beautiful structure. It takes up an entire city block in downtown Portland and covers half an acre. It's three stories in height and it was built in 1913.
John/Google Local
This library is the main branch of the Multnomah County Library System. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
Ni N./Google Local
The main marble staircase of the library is striking.
Serendipity Travels/Google Local
It has a total of 92 steps. As you climb the stairs, you'll see beauty all around you. A lot of time and effort and creativity went into designing this library over a hundred years ago, and it's something we can all still appreciate today.
Haemin Ryu/Google Local
There are vast spaces in this library with enough room for everyone who wishes to use it.
Management/Google Local
Everything is arranged with care. The librarians who work here treat this space with the love and respect that it deserves.
Lucas Kerper/Google Local

Related Stories

The World's Smallest Park Is Here In Oregon And It's An Unforgettable Adventure

The World's Smallest Park Is Here In Oregon And It's An Unforgettable Adventure

 The Oregon State Park Where You Can View Three High Bridges Is A Grand Adventure

The Oregon State Park Where You Can View Three High Bridges Is A Grand Adventure

 The Breathtaking Historic Home In Oregon You Must Visit This Year

The Breathtaking Historic Home In Oregon You Must Visit This Year
There are even old card catalogs here for you to investigate, even though the library catalog has been computerized for decades.
Juliann Johnson/Google Local
Speaking of computers, there are more than 130 computer workstations in this library for public use.
Lucas Kerper/Google Local
There's also a lot of public art for visitors to view and enjoy.
Stephen Mbah/Google Local
Sometimes, there are even beautiful flower arrangements set in prominent spaces in the library.
Rob Stolz/Google Local
And of course, there are books everywhere. The library's collections weigh more than 875 tons and take up over 17 miles of shelf space. It's truly a book lover's dream.
Lucas Kerper/Google Local
You'll love visiting the Multnomah County Central Library.
Haemin Ryu/Google Local
Aren't libraries amazing? We are so lucky to have these public spaces to utilize and enjoy.
S Yang/Google Local

This library is worth a visit for book lovers, architecture buffs, and Oregon state history fanatics alike. You’ll love a visit to this place, and you’ll want to return to it time and time again.

Are you looking to do more book-related tourism while you’re in Portland? Check out this amazing bookstore, too! The World’s Largest Independent Bookstore Is Right Here In Oregon And It’s Positively Magical

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Oregon

Featured Addresses
multnomah central library