If you could step in a time machine and go back to 1977 to where the Sam Lena-South Tucson Library currently stands, you would find a simple trailer full of books.
Nearly 10 years later, in 1986, the permanent Sam Lena-South Tucson Library opened to the public.
The library was expanded in 1991, adding 1,500 square feet and creating a 4,777 square-foot library.
In October 2017, the library was closed yet again to undergo an overhaul of the space to create a more purposeful space for customers.
The library re-opened in December 2018 with the following new features and amenities:
Sam Lena-South Tucson Library had another set of renovations completed in the first quarter of 2019 and re-opened to the public in March.
The Sam Lena-South Tucson Library is located at 1607 S. Sixth Avenue in south Tucson.
Free and plentiful.
1986
The library is named in honor of Sam Lena (1921-1996), a longtime South Tucson politician and former member of the Pima County Board of Supervisors, who advocated for the funding for the permanent building.
4,777 square feet
Admission to libraries is always free.
FREE! Library cards are available as a complimentary amenity for all Pima County residents.
Are bathrooms available?
Yes.
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, there are changing tables in both public restrooms.
All ages!
Yes!
Yes! There is a creative youth space for teens and tweens.
There is not a snack machine at this Library, but as the Tucson Foodie says, “If you’re looking for Mexican food—good, authentic Mexican food—South Tucson is a great place to find it.” After visiting the Library, try one of the restaurants listed below. Don’t forget to swing by Isabella’s Ice Cream for dessert!
The library asks “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.”
There are excellent restaurants galore in this area - especially since Downtown Tucson is right around the corner! Our top picks within approximately 2 miles are:
This Library has two study rooms that each hold 10 people.
There are three meeting rooms that hold up to 104 people and a conference room that holds 12 people.
To find more information about the library's meeting rooms and to access a meeting room application, please visit the Pima County Public Libraries website.
See above. Feel free to inquire at the library directly with your request.
You can follow the Sam Lena-South Tucson Library on Facebook and you can also follow Pima County Public Library on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The Sam Lena-South Tucson Library serves as a vital resource for the South Tucson community who rely on it for access to materials, public computers, wifi, and meeting and study space. On average, more than 9,500 people visit the Library monthly.
P.S. Did we mention that this location has a convenient curbside book drop?!
