The Austin Central Library has been named as a finalist for Public Library of the Year by the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA).

This award is given each year to a newly built library. Each library is assessed on criteria including the extent to which the library takes into account new digital development, local culture, sustainability, and the wishes and needs of the users.
    
“The Central Library is the crown jewel of not just the Austin Public Library system but the city as a whole,” said Austin Public Library Director Roosevelt Weeks. “I’m so proud of this nomination. It speaks to what an incredible place our central library is.” 

A total of 35 libraries from 19 countries applied to be considered for the international 2018 Public Library of the Year Award. There are five finalists:
•    Austin Central Library
•    Villa-Lobos Park Library, Sao Paulo, Brazil
•    KopGroep Bibliotheken, Den Helder, Netherlands
•    Deichman Biblo Toyen, Olso, Norway
•    Tampines Public Library, Singapore

"Austin has one of the greatest libraries in the world, as this nomination confirms,” said Austin Mayor Steve Adler. “Our library stands as a testament to the great things we can accomplish together."

The IFLA recognized the Central Library for its focus on sustainability and the high flexibility of its interior design and furniture.

This year’s winner will be announced on Aug. 28, during the IFLA Annual Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The Austin Central Library opened Oct. 28, 2017. The 200,000 square-foot library has six floors, 14 shared learning rooms, more than 100 computers, 150 self-checkout devices, an art gallery, a gift shop, and a café.