The Joel D. Valdez Main Library ("Main Library," for short) was originally built in 1901 on 6th Avenue and Stone in the regal building that is now the Children's Museum of Tucson.
In 1990, the library relocated to its current location on Stone Avenue to increase space and better position itself as a hub of activity in the heart of downtown. The sleek grey and white building encompasses 96,000 sqft and sees foot traffic of approximately 600,000 people a year.
Pima County recently bought the Wells Fargo building in Downtown Tucson. The Joel D. Valdez Main Library will move from their current building across the street. This project will likely be completed in 2027 or 2028.
In Downtown Tucson. The address is: 101 N. Stone Ave., Tucson.
The Main Library Garage (45 W. Alameda Street) is conveniently located right underneath Joel D. Valdez Main Library. From Stone Avenue, head west on Alameda Street. The parking garage will be on your left before Church Avenue. The first hour of parking is free!
Main Library Parking Garage Hours
Monday 5:45am - 9:00pm
Tuesday 5:45am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 5:45am - 9:00pm
Thursday 5:45am - 9:00pm
Friday 5:45am - 9:00pm
Saturday 7:45am - 6:00pm
Sunday 12:00pm - 6:00pm
Main Library Parking Garage Rate
Parking garage rates are as follows:
Weekday $1.00 per hour (first hour free)
Weeknight *$1.00 per hour
Weekend Day Free
Weekend Night*
Event $5.00
*Evening rates begin at 6PM
Admission to libraries is always free.
FREE! Library cards are available as a complimentary amenity for all Pima County residents.
Yes, there are restrooms on every floor, including the children’s section.
Yes. Outside food and drinks are allowed in the downstairs "cafe seating area."
None.
There are a plethora of outstanding dining options in the area! Our top picks within walking distance are:
You'll probably mostly be on the first/main floor if you bring your baby. It's not a particularly large space so a stroller is probably unnecessary - unless you plan to roam the streets of downtown afterward to catch a bite to eat. :)
No. That said, there are benches and comfortable chairs located throughout the library.
Yes – in the restrooms.
All ages!
There are two large meeting rooms and four study rooms that can be used at no charge "for organizations engaged in educational, cultural, civic, intellectual, or charitable activities."
To book the plaza for an event, please contact the City of Tucson's Parks and Recreation Department at 520-837-8054 or send an email to [email protected]. The daily fee is $50 for City residents and $65 for non-residents.
Yes! You can follow Joel D. Valdez Main Library on Facebook and Twitter.
That just about covers it. Have a great time!
