The Denver Public Library provides welcoming spaces where everyone is free to explore, learn, create and belong. Through 26 locations across the city, the library builds community by providing essential resources that help people connect, grow and thrive. And, it’s all for free.
What Can You Do At The Library?
There’s a lot you can do at the library. You’re welcome to:
- Borrow books, magazines, movies and music to take home for 1-3 weeks. Many materials are available online.
- Use computers, printers and copiers.
- Ask a librarian for help finding information.
- Learn English.
- Study for the Citizenship test.
- Connect with community resources and public benefits.
- Get help finding a job.
- Get help starting a business.
- Find resources and fun activities for kids.
- Get help with your homework.
- Go to classes and fun events.
- Use tools like sewing machines, recording equipment and 3D printers.
Do I Need a Library Card?
You do not need a library card to attend events and programs like Plaza, Storytime, computer classes or ideaLABs. Library cards are free and it is easy to sign up! Visit any Denver Public Library location with a photo identification card and proof of address. Photo ID can be any state ID, passport from any country, or consular ID.
Things You Can Borrow From The Library with a Card
- Books and eBooks.
- Audiobooks and audio eBooks.
- Movies (on DVD, BluRay and streaming online).
- Music (on CD and streaming online).
- Magazines and digital magazines.
- Newspapers.
- Wi-Fi hotspots.
- Museum and State Parks passes.
- Plus much more!
Programs and Services
Find programs at all Denver Public Library locations.
Plaza
Plazas are open community spaces where immigrants from all over the world connect with resources and meet new people. Activities include English language practice, citizenship preparation, computer help, arts and crafts, community building and more.
Community Resources
Meet with a specialist for assistance with navigating community resources like shelter, housing, food, public benefits, mental health, medical care, substance use treatment and more… just ask.
Storytimes
Stories, songs, rhymes and more for babies, young children and their parents or caregivers presented in English and Spanish.
Computer Classes
Classes and individual practice on a wide range of technology topics, from basic to advanced, presented in English and Spanish.
ideaLABS
ideaLAB: Makerspaces are free community spaces to make things. The library’s ideaLABs help anyone make websites, videos, games, music and more. While equipment varies at each location, the ideaLAB at the Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch Library has a focus on textiles: sewing machines, a loom and spinning wheel help people make clothing, quilts, fabric arts and more. With sophisticated equipment and technical staff support, ideaLABs give free access to resources that might otherwise be out of reach. No library card is required
Words We Use
- Borrow or check out: to take home for a period of time.
- Due date: the day that the item must be returned to the library.
- Items or materials: books, movies, music, and other things that the library owns for you to use.
- Librarian: a trained professional who can help you learn how to use the library and how to find the information you need.
- Library card: a free membership card that you need to borrow materials from the library.
- Photo ID: an identification card that shows your name and a photograph of you. It can be a state I.D., a passport from any country or a consulate I.D. Bring what you have and we will work with you to make a library card.
- Proof of Address: A bill or other piece of mail with your name that proves where you live.
- Receipt: a piece of paper that shows what items you have checked out and when they are due.
- Renew: asking to borrow materials for extra time.
- Return: taking materials back to the library.