HQ Function

Serves as the main administrative center, flagship public library branch, and houses extensive collections, specialized departments, public event spaces, and historical archives.

Notable Features:

The iconic 'Community Bookshelf' parking garage facade, featuring 22 giant book spines. Internally, it includes the historic bank vault (now the Stanley H. Durwood Film Vault), ornate early 20th-century architecture, a rooftop terrace, and dedicated spaces like the Missouri Valley Room for local history and genealogy.

Work Culture:

A public service-oriented environment focused on community engagement, education, and providing access to information. Staff are typically dedicated to fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all patrons.

HQ Significance:

The Central Library is a significant cultural and architectural landmark in Kansas City, symbolizing the city's commitment to learning and community. It's a hub for civic discourse, cultural events, and provides essential resources to a diverse population.

Values Reflected in HQ: Accessibility to knowledge, preservation of history, community engagement, innovation in library services, and architectural repurposing that honors heritage.

Location:

The Kansas City Public Library primarily serves the residents within its legally defined service area in Kansas City, Missouri, and extends services to reciprocal borrowers from participating regional library systems. While its physical services are local, its global reach is facilitated through its extensive online digital resources, including e-books, databases, and virtual programs, which can be accessed by users beyond its immediate geographical boundaries, though full borrowing privileges are typically reserved for local cardholders.

Street Address:

14 West 10th Street

City:

Kansas City

State/Province:

Missouri

Country:

USA