Downtown Library
Anchorage Public Library (APL) and the Anchorage Library Foundation (ALF) are working to re-establish a downtown library made possible by a generous bequest from Janet and John Goetz.
The Anchorage Public Library serves the Municipality of Anchorage, with five locations from Eagle River to Girdwood. APL is an asset to the community to build strong, educated people and is constantly evolving to meet our patrons’ needs. Our programming is inclusive of all backgrounds, and the library is a place where people can meet others who are different from them, spreading ideas and cultures across different communities.
Our Vision & Values
Our vision is for the Municipality of Anchorage to be an educated and connected community where our Library is an essential center for learning, inspiration, and community pride for people of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures.
Access
- We welcome all people.
- We are committed to reducing barriers to library resources.
Community
- We strive to be a vital center of the community supporting the public with respect and dignity.
- We work to create an environment of mutual support, collaboration, and professionalism.
Integrity
- We endeavor to be trusted stewards of public resources by providing reliable and sustainable services.
- We are supportive of each other, transparent in decision making, and mission focused.
Learning
- We actively facilitate and encourage curiosity, literacy, and life-long learning.
- We are open to new ideas and committed to evolving and growing with our community.
History
The first Anchorage library appeared in the new tent city on Ship Creek in 1917. Today’s bustling Anchorage Public Library circulates over 1.7 million books, media, and digital materials a year. The main Z.J. Loussac Library and its four neighborhood libraries (Chugiak-Eagle River, Mountain View, Muldoon and Girdwood's Gerrish Branches) serve over 940,000 visitors each year, which exceeds total attendance at the Sullivan Arena by more than 74%. Additionally, over 60,000 children and adults participate in library programs each year.
A Conversation with Julia Quinn
Anchorage Public Library is excited to welcome #1 New York Times Best Selling author, Julia Quinn to Alaska. Join us for “A Conversation With Julia Quinn” October 16 and 17.
Your Library on the Move
The Mobile Library extends key library services to communities with limited access to physical library locations. Look for us at a stop near you to checkout books, signup for library cards, and more.