J. Erik Jonsson Central Library - Dallas, Texas

Eli Hernandez

FROM SHAKESPEARE, to the Declaration of Independence, to gay Pride, Dallas' main library is an awesome place to learn, experience different cultures and people watch ? Now open every day of the week, except Mondays SEE ? you there.

Reiner B.

Heute die Bibliothek besichtigt mit ihrem offensichtlich breiten Angebot für die Community. Hat schön viel Platz in einem Gebäude aus den frühen 80er mit sehr viel Sichtbeton. Im Innern wäre eine Finanzspritze an manchen Stellen phantasievoll zu verwenden, aber der Fokus liegt sicher zu Recht bei Programm und Services. Eine sehr freundliche Bibliothekarin in der Jugenbibliothek auf Level 2 gab mir einen Etagenplan zur Orientierung.

Tracy Kennedy

Well where do I begin. For starters have not entered this location since 1990’s. Yep that long ago. Now that i live on Elm st, thought i would take the day researching information on the historical location i live in. I also wanted to visit the Declaration of Independence. My first steps into the bldg. on the 1 floor, was aweful, homeless have taken it over for a sleeping, and eating location. Their hygiene and the extra smell of weed made for a mocktail of smells that i did not expect to walk into. So i trudged onto the 3 floor hoping for a better situation. More sleeping homeless, with their goods spread over the table, i watched one gentleman pushing his trash bag full of foods, that split open and poured onto the floor. Then he managed to roll over the trash he chose not to pick up. They were traveling up and down the elevators to chat with each other and choose their sleeping spots. They are not there for the resources to better their lives, or even to gain knowledge through reading. Just there to sleep and eat. So i trudged on toward the 7 floor to read articles regarding the articles i came for. It was all so disappointing to see and i wont be visiting ever again. Such a great place for it to be taken over by homeless population. Unsure why they dont do anything about it .

Victoria Monet

Honestly, this is my best kept secrets for a study place. This is one of the best, largest libraries that I've been in. Yes, there is a large homeless population that hangs out during the day. Yes, it can be kind of eerie, but they stick to themselves and do not bother you.
The library has 7 or 8 floors, all topics on all topics on anything you can imagine. They have a Podcast area, and area to play instruments,Multiple tables and Mini desks to study, Vast floor to ceiling windows to gaze upon the outside...... Security that circulates throughout the library...... I wish there was a solution where people would feel more comfortable to visit often. This place definitely is a jewel.

Niecy Cameron

Such a nice library!! They have so many activities for youth. Dallas has a large homeless population and they give them water and free phone calls. I also see a lot of community resources posted around the library for those in need. They always have events for free. They could definitely improve their children's book section but overall a nice place for kids and teens. They even give free lunch during the summer to kids.

Leon Horsley

Great library. The kids floor (that's the second floor) has a great selection of books and toys. There's also a helpful "bureau of vital statistics" a birth and death certificate center and plenty of other great stuff. Classes are open the public and do not require a library card.

naijayemm

I love writing and working here. The calm, silent ambience. An abundance of seating and tables. Friendly greetings. Unlike expensive coffee shops and cramp spaces, I can spread out, save moolah and feel comfy & at peace. The 7th floor is best. The children’s library is neat too for the munchkins. The lib showcases kid films weekly.

Rahul Singh

Went their for the first time to pickup the birth certificate, my experience was awesome! The whole vital check process was very smooth online and the certificate was ready within an hour. The staff in the library was very helpful and I was out within 5 mins.

I was overwhelmed by looking at the entire library and it’s vast collection. Definitely going back there to explore more.