The Murphy-Wilmot Library opened on September 21, 1965 as the third library in Tucson. Designed by noted Tucson architect Nicholas Sakellar, (1918-1993), the Library is recognized as an excellent example of mid-century Modern architecture.
This location was last expanded and remodeled in 2010. It gained 4,480 square feet (for a grand total of 22,109 square feet) and more study rooms, seating for customers, a teen room, a larger meeting room, and new display areas.
The Murphy-Wilmot Library is located on Wilmot Road (adjacent to Carondelet St. Joseph's Hospital) in between Speedway and Broadway in East/Central Tucson. The address is: 530 N. Wilmot Road.
Lewis Curtis “Lew” Murphy (1933-2005) served four terms as Tucson’s mayor. He is the longest-serving mayor in Tucson’s history.
Free and plentiful (covered!) parking.
Admission to libraries is always free.
FREE! Library cards are available as a complimentary amenity for all Pima County residents.
Two 4-person rooms can be reserved up to a week in advance.
The Murphy-Wilmot Library features one large meeting room that holds 50 people with tables & chairs, 75 people with chairs only, or 132 people when standing only. It includes a sink, dry erase boards, and Induction Loop Technology. This Library also has a small meeting room that accommodates 24 people with tables and chairs, 35 people with chairs only, or 52 people when standing only.
Yes.
Food & drink guidelines are the same systemwide.
“We ask that you act responsibly when consuming food and drink in the Library. Please clean up after yourself and alert staff if you need assistance with a spill.”
Food and drink are permitted throughout the library except while using special collections.
Beverages need to be in covered containers.
Delivery of food to the library is not permitted.
This library has vending machines and café seating.
There are a plethora of outstanding dining options in the area! Our top picks within ~3 miles are:
The library is small and walking will be minimal so a stroller is probably unnecessary.
No. That said, there are comfortable chairs located throughout the library.
Yes – in both the men's and women's restrooms.
Yes, the Children’s area is on the northwest side of the building. The space flows from an early childhood learning area to just-for-kids computers to books and other materials for the school age child. There is also an art wall for revolving displays of student art.
Tucked into the northeast corner of the building, teens have their own space to sit, read and browse a large collection of teen materials, including manga, graphic novels and magazines.
All ages!
The Murphy-Wimot Library has two meeting rooms (see above). The rooms can be used at no charge “for organizations engaged in educational, cultural, civic, intellectual, or charitable activities.”
Yes, you can find and follow Murphy-Wilmot Library on Facebook.
Where to begin? The architecture, the spacious interior, view of the Catalina mountain range, the green space courtyard that provides a calming and beautiful backdrop for customers to enjoy. For art lovers, take note of the carved arch sculpture over the entrance doors created by Tucson sculptor James Savage, reflecting civilization’s progress in knowledge. Located in a bustling part of Pima County’s District 4 (N. Wilmot Rd. & E. 5th St.), Murphy-Wilmot Library is a fantastic destination no matter your age or interests!
That just about covers it. Have a great time!
