Columbus Library Hours 2025 - Complete Branch Guide
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The Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) consistently ranks among the top five library systems in the United States, and for good reason. Serving Ohio's state capital and surrounding Franklin County, CML operates 23 locations that welcomed over 10 million visits in recent years. From the stunning renovated Main Library downtown to neighborhood branches across the region, Columbus residents enjoy exceptional library services. This guide covers hours, locations, and insider tips for making the most of CML and the city's university libraries.
Last Updated: December 2025 | Verified by: Library Hours 24 Editorial Team
Columbus Library System at a Glance
Columbus Main Library
The Main Library underwent a transformative $45 million renovation completed in 2016, creating one of the most modern and welcoming public library spaces in America. The building features soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, a three-story atrium, and the iconic Reading Room that honors the library's historic past while embracing 21st-century design.
Main Library - Downtown
Address: 96 S. Grant Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: (614) 645-2275
| Monday - Thursday | 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Friday - Saturday | 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
| Sunday | 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM |
Notable Features: Carnegie Gallery exhibitions, Topiary Park views, extensive genealogy collection, free meeting rooms, recording studio, 3D printing, Homework Help Center
Columbus Neighborhood Branches
CML's neighborhood branches are designed to meet each community's specific needs. Many have undergone recent renovations, adding features like maker spaces, teen areas, and expanded children's sections. Each branch offers free WiFi, public computers, printing services, and a welcoming space for studying and community gathering.
Dublin Branch
Address: 75 N. High Street, Dublin, OH 43017
Phone: (614) 645-2275
Hours: Mon-Thu 9am-9pm, Fri-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 1pm-5pm
Modern facility in historic Dublin with excellent children's programming.
Gahanna Branch
Address: 310 Granville Street, Gahanna, OH 43230
Phone: (614) 645-2275
Hours: Mon-Thu 9am-9pm, Fri-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 1pm-5pm
Serves Gahanna community with dedicated teen space and meeting rooms.
Hilliard Branch
Address: 4772 Cemetery Road, Hilliard, OH 43026
Phone: (614) 645-2275
Hours: Mon-Thu 9am-9pm, Fri-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 1pm-5pm
Busy suburban branch with extensive holds pickup and drive-up service.
Karl Road Branch
Address: 5590 Karl Road, Columbus, OH 43229
Phone: (614) 645-2275
Hours: Mon-Thu 9am-9pm, Fri-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 1pm-5pm
One of the busiest branches, serving diverse north Columbus communities.
Reynoldsburg Branch
Address: 1402 Brice Road, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Phone: (614) 645-2275
Hours: Mon-Thu 9am-9pm, Fri-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 1pm-5pm
Serves eastern suburbs with strong community event programming.
Whitehall Branch
Address: 4445 E. Broad Street, Whitehall, OH 43213
Phone: (614) 645-2275
Hours: Mon-Thu 9am-9pm, Fri-Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 1pm-5pm
Renovated branch with expanded maker space and computer lab.
Columbus University Libraries
As the home of The Ohio State University—one of the largest universities in the nation—Columbus has exceptional academic library resources. The Thompson Library underwent a stunning $109 million renovation and is open to the public for visiting, though borrowing requires OSU affiliation.
Ohio State University - Thompson Library
Address: 1858 Neil Avenue Mall, Columbus, OH 43210
Phone: (614) 292-6785
| Monday - Thursday | 7:00 AM - 12:00 AM |
| Friday | 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM |
Special Note: 24-hour access during finals week for OSU students. The Grand Reading Room is a must-see architectural feature, and the 11th floor offers panoramic campus views.
Ohio State University - Science & Engineering Library (SEL)
Address: 175 W. 18th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210
Phone: (614) 292-6785
| Monday - Thursday | 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
| Saturday - Sunday | 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
Features: STEM-focused collections, patent resources, 3D printing, and collaborative study spaces.
🌰 Columbus Library Insider Tips
🎫 FREE COSI & Museum Passes
With a CML library card, reserve FREE passes to COSI (Center of Science and Industry - normally $25!), Columbus Museum of Art, Franklin Park Conservatory, and more through the "Discover Pass" program. Book online 2 weeks ahead - popular museums go fast!
🏛️ 11th Floor Views at Thompson
OSU's Thompson Library is open to the public and stays open until MIDNIGHT on weeknights! The 11th floor Grand Reading Room offers stunning panoramic campus views. During finals, it goes 24/7 for students. Architecture rivals any Ivy League library!
📖 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
CML's nationally-recognized "Ready for Kindergarten" program tracks your child's reading progress via their app. Proven to improve school readiness. FREE for all families - just download the CML app and start logging books!
🏢 FREE Meeting Rooms
Most CML branches offer FREE meeting rooms - reserve online up to 30 days in advance. Perfect for study groups, book clubs, nonprofit meetings, or small business presentations. No rental fee with library card!
🔧 3D Printing & Recording Studio
Main Library has a FREE makerspace with 3D printers, recording studio, and digital media equipment. Staff teach you how to use everything. Reserve online - popular times fill up but morning slots often available!
🎨 Topiary Park Views
Main Library overlooks Topiary Park - a stunning recreation of Seurat's "A Sunday Afternoon" in living topiary. Best views from Main Library's upper floors! Combine library visit with free park exploration. Perfect Instagram spot.
2025 Holiday Closures
Columbus Metropolitan Library branches are closed on: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day (some branches), Veterans Day (some branches), Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Check the CML website or call ahead for specific holiday hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Columbus Main Library hours?
Columbus Main Library is open Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm, Friday-Saturday 9am-6pm, and Sunday 1pm-5pm. Located downtown at 96 S. Grant Avenue, it's the flagship of the CML system with the most comprehensive services and collections.
How many Columbus Metropolitan Library branches are there?
Columbus Metropolitan Library operates 23 locations throughout Franklin County, making it one of the largest and most-used public library systems in the United States. CML consistently ranks in the top five library systems nationally.
Can I use Columbus libraries without a card?
Yes, you can visit any CML location to use computers (with time limits), browse materials, use WiFi, and attend programs without a card. A free library card is needed to check out physical materials, access digital resources from home, and reserve meeting rooms.
Does OSU Thompson Library have public access?
Yes, Ohio State's Thompson Library is open to the public for visiting and studying. The Grand Reading Room and 11th floor with panoramic views are popular attractions. However, borrowing privileges require OSU affiliation or a special community borrower card ($50/year for non-OSU individuals).
What makes Columbus libraries special?
CML is renowned for innovation, including being early adopters of fine-free policies, extensive digital services, and award-winning children's programs. The renovated Main Library is an architectural showcase, and the system's commitment to serving all community members has earned national recognition.