Durham County Main Library
Phone: (919) 560-0100
Overview
Visit the Durham County Main Library to see Purple STEAM, a 17-foot-tall, 3D-printed futuristic structure designed by Volkan Alkanoglu and fabricated by Branch Technology. As one of the largest permanent 3D-printed public sculptures in the United States, it took a fleet of six-axis robots several weeks to print it in its entirety. The pavilion name references and celebrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math)-based learning, and the purple color was chosen by library users. Explore all four floors of the library to see other installations that encourage vibrant, modern learning and spend some time on the terrace that has patio chairs and tables.
Details
- Total Capacity 150
Amenities
- Publish on Visit Widget
Hours
Monday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 – 6:00 PM
Map
Meeting Spaces
Auditorium
| Configuration | Occupancy |
|---|---|
| Reception | 0 |
| Banquet | 0 |
Conference
| Configuration | Occupancy |
|---|---|
| Reception | 0 |
| Banquet | 0 |
Google Rating
-
The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful. Got our library cards within minutes! The place is clean and has a lot of spaces for studying and reading. You can also book rooms. There is a lot of fun stuff for kids. -
Is the expectation to be quiet inside a library an outdated concept now? I love the newly renovated building—the decor, the nooks, and the variety of seating that provide comfortable spaces to relax while enjoying the books and resources. HOWEVER, it is difficult to appreciate all of these aesthetics and amenities when using an "indoor voice" doesn't seem to be a requirement. Between the children's floor that produces outdoor playground sounds that echo through the different levels, and adults having normal-toned conversations on their phones or among themselves near the stacks where other visitors are trying to enjoy a peaceful environment, the building hardly seems like a library anymore. -
This is my first time visiting the Durham Main Library. I’m happy to find it located in downtown Durham, and it even has its own free parking lot. The library looks very new and features a dedicated North Carolina History room. There are many people studying here, and it is very quiet -
The Durham County Main Library is an excellent place to study, read, and work. The staff is always friendly, helpful, and professional. The library is clean, quiet, and well-organized, with a great selection of books, computers, and community resources. I especially appreciate the comfortable environment and the many programs available for people of all ages. It's a wonderful asset to the community, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a welcoming and productive space. -
The building is nice and the selection of books is great, but the security staff there are awful and rude. I was looking through books and came around an area where I didn’t know other people were in, one of the security guards was sitting on a seat and I had to adjust quickly not to run into him. He said “Please more personal space next time.” Like I get it, but one I didn’t know you were there and second you don’t need to tell me like I’m a child. Then, I was carrying a stack of books down the big stairs and I guess one of the security ladies didn’t think I could hear because I heard her say, “If I wasn’t at work, I would trip her”. Like HELLO??? Really sad that they act like this in a public service setting. Will not be coming back to this location because of their presence.
Nearby Businesses
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African American Heritage Sites
Pauli Murray and the Virgen de Guadalupe mural by Brett Cook
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