Whether you’ve just moved, are a local university student, or are visiting the area, there are many ways to enjoy libraries in Des Moines, IA.
Ways to Enjoy
The easiest way to enjoy these libraries is through a library card. All library cards are free for residents of Iowa! To get a physical card for City of Des Moines Library locations, you must stop by in person at any location. You can also sign up for a temporary digital card that will allow you to access some online services, but not the full spectrum. These cards last for 60 days, and upgrading to a full-access card must be done in person.
As an adult, borrowers must provide proof of address, current name, and a photo ID. Youth over the age of five may apply for a card, but those under the age of twelve must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Youth cards are not dependent on their guardian having an account, but they are held responsible for items checked out on their children’s cards.
Of course, if you are just visiting the city, all libraries are free and open to the public. You will need a card to check out resources or reserve a room, but you can visit and enjoy their other offerings free of charge.
Des Moines City Library Locations
The City of Des Moines has six library locations over the city. Central on Grand Avenue, East Side on Hubbell Avenue, Forest Avenue on Forest Ave., Franklin Avenue on Franklin Avenue, North Side on Fifth Avenue, and South Side on Porter Avenue.
Each Des Moines Library location posts their hours online, in addition to holidays they are closed for. Each location is slightly different, hosting different events and collections.
The Central Library is all about art, featuring both the sculpture “Les Vents” and Miffy Fountain on either lawn opposite the building. There is also an Art Gallery located on the second floor that features eight movable internal walls for custom gallery hanging space. To see their current displays or learn more about applying for a feature, click here. They also have a pickup window in addition to their in-person services.
The East Side Library has programs and staff in both English and Spanish. They aim to provide a welcoming environment for learning new skills or exploring interests.
The Forest Avenue Library features an extensive Foreign Language collection and access to language learning resources, for both adults and children. The early literacy center in the children’s area features ways to learn and play.
The Franklin Avenue location features a pickup window in addition to their in-person services for people on the go. Additionally, they offer over 40 public internet computers.
The North Side Library features the Heritage Collection, a local history with vintage photographs and memorabilia telling the story of Highland Park’s past.
The South Side location contains a variety of meeting rooms and spaces specially designed for conversations and virtual meetings. In addition to the teen loft hosting comfortable seating, there is a large children’s area. There is also a community fridge accessible during library hours.
State Library
As the capital city of Iowa, Des Moines also hosts the State Library. Located in the Ola Babcock Miller building on the Capitol complex, the library aims to support Iowa libraries and Iowans. Their two main goals are to improve library services to the community and deliver specialized information services to Iowans and the state government. Additionally, the State Law library, one such specialized service, is located inside the capitol building. Any resident of Iowa can request a State Library card online or in person at the capitol Law Library. Even if you do not live nearby a location, you can access online resources with the card. It may not appear as a public library when searching Des Moines, but it’s still one of the prized Des Moines libraries that you remember long after you leave.
