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FREE Libraries & Learning in Austin
Austin Public Library's 21 branches offer far more than books. FREE yoga classes, podcast recording studios, language exchange groups, maker spaces, story times, workshops, and community events happen at branches across the city every week. All FREE, no questions asked. This section covers FREE library programs, learning resources, lectures, and educational events for all ages.
This week's pickLibrary Card Pick
One FREE read each week, chosen to go with what is happening in Austin. Borrow it with your Austin Public Library card on Libby, or look for it at your branch.
It's Texas Book Festival weekend, so here's a book about Austin itself: how "Keep Austin Weird" came to be, and the fight to hold onto this town's character. FREE with your Austin Public Library card, in print or as an eBook. Copies are on the shelf right now.
Cooler weather is trail weather, and this guide to the plants and animals of Central Texas is the kind of book that lives in the car. FREE on Libby with your Austin Public Library card, or in print at your branch. Copies are out right now, so place a hold.
Prefer to own a copy? Our Bookshop.org list supports independent bookstores. Bookshop.org links are affiliate links, and FREE in Austin may earn a small commission at no cost to you. The library copy is always FREE.
Austin Public Library
Austin Public Library has 21 locations, and everything in this section is FREE.
Know before you go
- Most digital services ask for your library card number and PIN.
- Hours and programs vary by branch, so check the branch page before you go.
Get a library card All digital services Student library accounts
Your library card 2 listings
Get a FREE Austin Public Library card
FREE for Austin residents. Apply online or at any branch with a photo ID and proof of address. The eCard gives you the digital services 24/7 and is approved in 2 to 3 business days.
Visit siteStudent library accounts (Austin ISD, Del Valle, Manor, Austin Achieve, KIPP)
Students get a FREE library account through school to borrow from any branch and use the eBooks, audiobooks, music and video services. Austin ISD parents opt in during school registration.
Visit site
Stream and read FREE 4 listings
Kanopy (FREE streaming with your library card)
FREE streaming movies, documentaries and kids shows with your Austin Public Library card. Watch in a browser or the Kanopy app on phones, tablets and smart TVs.
Visit sitehoopla
FREE movies, TV shows, music, audiobooks, eBooks and comics with your library card, in the hoopla app or on the website.
Visit siteLibby (OverDrive)
FREE eBooks, audiobooks and magazines with your library card, in the Libby app or on the website.
Visit siteThe New York Times
FREE access to the New York Times website and app with your library card, with articles going back to 1851.
Visit site
Branches and places 4 listings
Austin Public Library, all 21 locations
FREE yoga, board game clubs, language practice, podcast recording, workshops, art and music software, and story times for kids at branches across the city.
Visit siteAustin History Center
FREE archive and gallery inside a 1933 landmark building, preserving maps, photos, and records of Austin history.
Visit siteCentral Library Rooftop Garden
Sixth-floor rooftop garden with skyline and Lady Bird Lake views, open during library hours.
Visit siteInnovate Digital Makerspace at Central Library
FREE makerspace with 3D printers, Adobe Creative Suite, video, podcast and music production gear, and reservable studio rooms.
Visit site
Programs 2 listings
APL Talk Time and ESL Conversation Practice
Ongoing FREE English conversation practice and ESL classes for adult learners at branches across the city. No registration or library card needed.
Visit siteAPL Seed Library
FREE seed packets (vegetables, herbs and native flowers) at Central Library and several branches. No library card needed.
Visit site
More libraries and learning
ACC Adult Education: FREE GED/HSE Prep
FREE High School Equivalency prep classes including Spanish-language and ESL-to-HSE tracks, with tutoring and FREE bus passes.
Visit siteLegislative Reference Library of Texas
FREE research library inside the Capitol with Texas legislative history and newspaper archives. Open weekdays; primarily serves the Legislature but assists the public.
Visit siteLiteracy Coalition of Central Texas
FREE adult basic education, GED/HSE prep, career English, and job-readiness classes for adults.
Visit siteTexas State Law Library
FREE public law library near the Capitol with legal research help. Open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. Open to everyone, not just attorneys.
Visit siteUT Austin PCL public reading room
Visit site
Hours and programs change often. Call ahead before you go. Know something that belongs here? Email freeinaustin@gmail.com.