The most daring piece of public architecture in the city is this downtown public library, designed by local architect Will Bruder. The five-story cube is partially clad in enough ribbed copper sheeting to produce roughly 17.5 million pennies. The design makes use of the desert’s plentiful sunshine to provide light for reading, but also incorporates computer-controlled louvers and shade sails to reduce heat and glare. Architecture mavens in town for the summer solstice, June 21, should check the library schedule; most years the architect gives a talk at noon on that day, when a set of skylights is designed to create a shadow dance on the walls.
Phoenix
Travel Guide
Phoenix› Attraction
Burton Barr Library
1221 N. Central Ave., USA
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Around Town
Hours
Mon and Fri–Sat 9am–5pm; Tues–Thurs 9am–9pm; Sun 1–5pm
Transportation
Bus: 0. METRO: McDowell Rd./Central Ave.
Phone
602/262-4636
Prices
Free admission
Web site
Burton Barr Library
Map
1221 N. Central Ave. USA PhoenixNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.