Olivia TaylorDid you know that Ottawa’s libraries offer more than books? They’re full of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered!
Whether you’re interested in architecture, local history, or just looking for a cozy place to read, Ottawa’s libraries have something for you. In fact, we have put together a guide that unlocks the secrets of the 16 must-visit libraries in Ottawa.
You will find unique collections, fascinating programs, and inspiring spaces that will spark your imagination and fuel your love of learning. So, read on and find your perfect library sanctuary today.
- 1. Beaverbrook Library
- 2. Carlingwood Library
- 3. Centennial Library
- 4. Emerald Plaza Library
- 5. Greensboro Library
- 6. Hazeldean Library
- 7. Ottawa Public Library
- 8. Nepean Centrepointe Library
- 9. Rideau Library
- 10. St. Laurent Library
- 11. Stittsville Library
- 12. Sunnyside Library
- 13. Library and Archives Canada
- 14. MacOdrum Library
- 15. Morisset Library
- 16. Township of Russell Public Library
1. Beaverbrook Library
Website: https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/branch/beaverbrook
Address: 2500 Campeau Dr, Kanata, ON K2K 2W3, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Beaverbrook branch of the Ottawa Public Library is a hidden gem for those seeking a vibrant and resourceful community hub. It also offers a local history collection for heritage buffs and Chromebooks for digital exploration.
There are comfy spots for quiet reading, bright spaces for group work, and even all-gender washrooms for added inclusivity. The expansive children’s area will delight children; storytelling sessions and other programs are also offered.
| Pro tip: If you’re curious about the area’s history, delve into the local history collection to uncover the unique stories of Beaverbrook and its people. |
2. Carlingwood Library
Website: http://biblioottawalibrary.ca/
Address: 281 Woodroffe Ave, Ottawa, ON K2A 3W4, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Stepping into Carlingwood Library, you’re greeted by a bright, airy space spread over three floors. The ground floor boasts a bustling children’s department, perfect for sparking a love of reading in young minds, with plenty of resources.
A meeting room is also available for community members to book, fostering connections and local initiatives. Carlingwood staff also curate reading lists, offering their favorite picks to help you discover your next great read.
| Pro tip: Check the library’s website or social media for upcoming events and programs. They offer a variety of activities for all ages, from storytime for toddlers to teen crafting workshops. |
3. Centennial Library
Website: http://biblioottawalibrary.ca/
Address: 3870 Old Richmond Rd, Nepean, ON K2H 5C4, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Designed by architect Hans Stutz, the Centennial Library boasts a one-of-a-kind octagonal shape. Opened in 1967, it has grown organically over the years, with additional octagonal sections seamlessly added, giving it a distinct character.
It’s known for its dedication to fostering a love of reading across all ages. It has one of the longest-running adult book clubs in the Ottawa Public Library system, and its children’s programs are a longstanding community favorite.
| Pro tip: Before your visit, check the Ottawa Public Library website for upcoming events at the Centennial Branch. They often host author readings, book clubs, and storytime sessions. |
4. Emerald Plaza Library
Website: https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/branch/emerald-plaza
Address: 1547 Merivale Rd, Nepean, ON K2G 4V3, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
The Emerald Plaza Library is the most visited branch among its peers. Its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff create a true neighborhood feel, and the library has a vast collection of popular titles.
Bookworms and busy bees will appreciate the library’s location inside Emerald Plaza, a shopping mall. Bibliophiles will also be delighted by the branch’s Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association used bookstore.
| Pro tip: Before you embark on your library adventure, browse the Ottawa Public Library website to see what new releases or upcoming events interest you. |
5. Greensboro Library
Website: http://biblioottawalibrary.ca/
Address: 363 Lorry Greenberg Dr, Ottawa, ON K1T 3P8, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Greensboro Library is a library and a shared space with the Greenboro Community Centre. This means you can browse for books, head next door for a swim, a fitness class, or even catch a movie.
The two-story space is designed to be both attractive and functional. There’s plenty of space to relax and curl up with a good book or to use their public computers for research or browsing the web.
| Pro tip: Since the library focuses on the South Ottawa community, browse the local history section. You might uncover a fascinating piece of Ottawa’s past you can learn about. |
6. Hazeldean Library
Website: http://biblioottawalibrary.ca/
Address: 50 Castlefrank Rd, Ottawa, ON K2L 2N5, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
The Hazeldean Library underwent renovations in 2012, making it a modern space with features like self-service stations and a Radio Frequency Identification system, the first in Ottawa Public Library.
The library offers a variety of programs and events, from storytime for children to discussions for adults. This makes it a vibrant hub for the community, fostering connection and engagement.
| Pro tip: Browsing the staff recommendations section is a great way to find hidden gems or discover new authors. |
7. Ottawa Public Library
Website: https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en
Address: 120 Metcalfe St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5M2, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Ottawa Public Library Main Branch is a treasure trove for bookworms and history buffs, making it a must-explore destination in Ottawa. As the most extensive library in the OPL system, it boasts the most extensive collection of materials.
The Ottawa Room, a dedicated section within the library, houses a wealth of local historical documents. The library also offers the most public access internet stations in the city.
| Pro tip: Anything you can unearth in the Ottawa Room is a must-read for history enthusiasts. Local newspapers, historical photographs, and archival documents bring Ottawa’s past to life—a unique perspective you won’t find anywhere else. |
8. Nepean Centrepointe Library
Website: http://biblioottawalibrary.ca/
Address: 101 Centrepointe Dr, Ottawa, ON K2G 0B5, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Nepean Centrepointe Library boasts a large children’s department with programs for all ages. It also houses the exciting Imagine Space, a makerspace equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, and tools for creative projects.
If you’re researching your family history, the library’s spacious reference department specializes in genealogy. Entrepreneurs will also find valuable resources at the library’s ServiceOntario Gateway for Business Workstation.
| Pro tip: While exploring the library’s collection, look for local history materials. Learn more about the neighborhood and Ottawa’s rich past. |
9. Rideau Library
Website: http://biblioottawalibrary.ca/
Address: 377 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5Y6, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Opened in 1934 by Prime Minister Sir Robert Borden, the Rideau Library boasts a heritage atmosphere. The library walls are adorned with a curated selection of artwork from 1945 to 2015, offering a visually stimulating complement to your literary explorations.
The Rideau branch is well-equipped with modern conveniences. There are Chromebooks for patron use, ensuring you can stay connected if needed, scanners, and a 24/7 book drop for your returns.
| Pro tip: If you plan to visit the Rideau branch, check their website for upcoming Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association sales to snag some literary bargains. |
10. St. Laurent Library
Website: http://biblioottawalibrary.ca/
Address: 515 Coté St, Ottawa, ON K1K 0Z8, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
The St. Laurent library is a central point for the community. Integrated with the Don Gamble Community Centre, it provides easy access to a pool, arena, and meeting facilities—all under one roof.
This branch boasts an extensive collection of French-language materials, making it a haven for Francophiles and anyone wanting to improve their French. The library also features a vibrant children’s department, perfect for sparking a love of reading in kids.
| Pro tip: Since the library has a strong French-language collection, consider exploring a work by a renowned Canadian Francophone author. Depending on your taste, you could delve into the historical fiction of Gabrielle Roy or the captivating stories of Michel Tremblay. |
11. Stittsville Library
Website: http://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/branch/stittsville
Address: 1637 Stittsville Main St, Ottawa, ON K2S 1A9, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
The Stittsville library is known for its cozy ambiance. Filled with comfy chairs and inviting fireplaces, it provides a relaxing space to curl up with a good book or browse the collection.
Whether you’re seeking the latest bestsellers, hidden literary gems, or informative resources, you’ll likely find what you need. You might find anything from author talks and workshops to film screenings or employment counseling services.
| Pro tip: Consider exploring the library’s local history collection if you’re looking for a local touch. You might uncover a fascinating story about the area’s past. |
12. Sunnyside Library
Website: https://biblioottawalibrary.ca/en/branch/sunnyside
Address: 1049 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W9, Canada
Contact details: +16135802940
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Sunnyside Library is situated on Bank Street in the heart of a vibrant community and boasts a beautiful view of the Rideau Canal. The canal transforms into a skating rink in winter, offering a perfect post-library activity.
They offer a wide range of books, magazines, digital resources, public computers, and Wi-Fi access. The library is also a hub for the local community, as it hosts programs, especially for children, fostering a love for learning and bringing people together.
| Pro tip: The Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association (FOPLA) hold used book sales at the Sunnyside Branch. This is a fantastic opportunity to find hidden treasures and unique reads at great prices. |
13. Library and Archives Canada
Website: https://library-archives.canada.ca/eng/services/public/visit/Pages/ottawa.aspx
Address: 395 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1A 0N4, Canada
Contact details: +16139965115
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Library and Archives Canada is a treasure trove for anyone curious about Canada’s history and heritage. It boasts the title of the fifth-largest library globally, as it houses volumes of books, government documents, historical artifacts, artworks, and even films.
It acts as the official memory of the Canadian government. Researchers and history buffs can delve into the government’s inner workings and trace the evolution of Canadian policies.
| Pro tip: Check their website for current exhibits. These curated displays offer a fascinating glimpse into specific aspects of Canadian history and culture. |
14. MacOdrum Library
Website: https://library.carleton.ca/
Address: Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
Contact details: +16135202600
Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM
The MacOdrum Library at Carleton University is a haven for knowledge seekers, offering a unique blend of academic resources, architectural beauty, and a vibrant atmosphere.
With extensive online databases, scholarly journals, and a treasure trove of books, the library empowers researchers and students to delve deep into their fields. Its modern design seamlessly integrates nature, making the library an architectural gem.
| Pro tip: Watch for “Canada: A Guide to the Peaceable Kingdom” by Michael Ignatieff. This insightful book delves into Canadian history and identity, offering a thought-provoking read in the heart of Canada’s capital. |
15. Morisset Library
Website: https://www.uottawa.ca/library
Address: 65 University Private, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
Contact details: +16135625213
Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 2:00 AM
The Morisset Library at the University of Ottawa is a treasure trove for knowledge seekers and literature lovers. It boasts a vast collection of books, journals, and other resources.
Morisset offers dedicated sections like the Media Centre, Archives, and Special Collections. There are also quiet zones for focused work, computer labs with research software, and individual study rooms for in-depth projects.
| Pro tip: The Archives and Special Collections hold unique historical documents about Canada’s rich past. Depending on your interests, exploring these archives could be a fascinating deep dive. |
16. Township of Russell Public Library
Website: https://russellbiblio.com/
Address: 1053 Concession St, Russell, ON K4R 1E1, Canada
Contact details: +16134455331
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
The Township of Russell Public Library caters to a diverse population with English and French resources. It organizes author visits, programs, and workshops, enriching the community’s cultural and intellectual lives.
It holds local historical archives, genealogy resources, or a curated selection of books by Ottawa authors. It offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and truly delve into a good book.
| Pro tip: Since the library caters to a bilingual community, consider exploring a Canadian author writing in your preferred language. If you’re new to the area, a local history book or a novel set in Ottawa could be a great way to learn more about the region. |
