Cincinnati Library

Its full name is the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, but as in most communities, it is known simply as the library.

If you don’t know anyone in town, don’t have an internet connection, and have no one to turn to for help with anything local, the library is your best friend. Show up with any query, no matter how seemingly insignificant or obscure, and you are practically guaranteed an answer. In the case of Cincinnati’s library, you can expect to be treated with genuine friendliness and a “no question is too big or too small” attitude.

There are several library locations in the Greater Cincinnati area. However, one of the best things about our library system is the usefulness of its website. Once you’ve got your library card (bring photo ID and proof of address to any branch and you’ll have one in minutes), you can administer much of your account online. Reserve books, renew books, find out if you’ve got any overdue fines, and more. They’ll even send you an email a few days before your books are due back or when your holds are available.

The main library is located downtown at 800 Vine Street (Walnut and Vine on Eighth and Ninth Streets). You can call the main branch on 513.369.6035. Here’s how to get there and where to park if you drive.

Library logo photo by Rob Ireton