12 Incredible Destination Libraries Around Seattle and Beyond

Find it: 2821 Beacon Ave. S., Seattle

At some libraries, crying either gets us a big ol’ stink eye or even kicked out. When my son was a year old and started wailing at the Beacon Hill branch, the woman at the checkout counter leaned over with a tin of stickers. Thank you.

Children’s librarian Diane Cowles has worked at the Beacon Hill Library for almost three decades, starting in its old storefront location. She’s seen kids grow up and then bring in their kids. “It’s always had a very welcoming feel, because it’s always been a neighborhood of immigrants and refugees,” Cowles said of the diverse neighborhood (more than two-thirds of Beacon Hill’s residents are people of color).

The architecture of the building echoes that warmth. The library is shaped like a giant ship, and stepping inside is like walking into the belly of an overturned boat. Wood and stone materials keep the vibe cozy, and big windows flood the interior with light. The branch, which opened in 2004, was refurbished in 2017.

Day trip: Start by taking Link light rail in; there’s a stop just across the street from the library. After you’ve gotten your fill of books, check out the snack options at Despi Delite Bakery, a Filipino eatery complete with cheerful aunties and mini purple ube rolls, or Fresh Flours, where you can get your Japanese-inspired flaky pastry with a side of ambiance. Jefferson Park, less than a mile south of the library, is every little kid’s dream come true. Look for zip lines, a climbing mountain with a bridge, a splash park, paved loops for bike riding and even a food forest for fun foraging. 

Up next: Elisabeth C. Miller Library