Due to a water line bursting, our North Avenue Branch is closed until further notice. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Main Library

The Main Library was constructed in 1929 and was originally called "The Dooley Library."
804-646-4867

101 East Franklin Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Branch Manager - Ben Himmelfarb
Closed

Hours

Tuesday 10:00am - 8:00pm:
Wednesday 10:00am - 8:00pm:
Thursday 10:00am - 8:00pm:
Friday 10:00am - 6:00pm:
Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm:
Sunday closed
Monday 10:00am - 8:00pm:

Available Services

  • public access

    • Features

    FAXING

    Local and Toll-free: $.50/page Long distance: $1.00 (out-going only).

    PRINTING/COPYING

    Prints are $.15/page for B&W, $.50/color. Copies are $.15/page, B&W only.

    NOTARY

    Notary services are available. Please call ahead for availability.

    PARKING

    Parking is available on-street around the library. There is a surface lot at 1st and E. Grace Streets and a deck at 2nd and E. Franklin Streets. The parking spaces behind the library in the lot are permit-only. Bicycle lanes have been added to East Franklin Street and the library provides bike racks for your convenience.

    WI-FI

    Free

    Upcoming Events at Main Library

    Youth Art Month

    Tue

    21

    Mar
     12:00 am - 11:59 pm

     All Locations

    Stop by any of our Richmond Public Libraries during the month of March to see some amazing art by Richmond Public School Students.

    Toddler Time

    Tue

    21

    Mar
     11:15 am - 12:00 pm

     Children's Storytime Area - Main Library

    Join us for fun and interactive stories, music and play for ages 18-36 months with their caregiver.

    Youth Art Month

    Wed

    22

    Mar
     12:00 am - 11:59 pm

     All Locations

    Stop by any of our Richmond Public Libraries during the month of March to see some amazing art by Richmond Public School Students.

    Study Rooms and Event Spaces

    Details

    Guests are expected to configure tables and chairs, and also return them to their original configuration.
    Rooms are booked a minimum of 2 weeks in advance, and maximum of 2 months in advance.

    Event Spaces

    Main Library offers several event spaces to the public.  The auditorium has a maximum capacity of 250 and includes a lectern, 10 tables, and 225 chairs.  The Annex has a maximum capacity of 44 and offers a lectern, 8 tables and 25 chairs.  Both rooms include a ceiling-mounted LCD projector and a screen.

    Study Rooms

    Main Library offers several study rooms to the public.  These include tables and chairs to seat 8-12 people.

     

    Job Seekers

    The Main Library houses a Job Seekers’ Area on the second floor, as part of the computer lab. There are six terminals available for patrons who are working on applications, resumes, cover letters, and other items. One-on-one assistance is offered as during schedule times during the week.

    Art display spaces

    The Main Library is home to several distinct art spaces, including the Dooley Foyer (pictured) and takes part in First Friday exhibitions on a regular basis.  Can’t make it down to the Main Library?  Check out the exhibits here.