You have just over a week left to see the “Gems from the Burton Barr Library Art Collection” at Phoenix City Hall!
Yes, there’s a gallery inside City Hall. And, yes, there’s an exhibition of art from the library.
Library Unavailable Due to Water Damage
It was almost a year ago that a burst pipe in the central library wreaked enough havoc in a matter of minutes to require months of reconstruction.
With repairs in process, a selection of the library’s art was transferred to Gallery @ Phoenix City Hall. Located in a walled-off corner of the main lobby, the Gallery is only open during the work day.
Art to Check Out
The eclectic collection features work as varied as a series of paintings by Ed Mell, a piece by Joan Miró, and a traditional Navajo rug.
Previously, the works on display had been scattered throughout the five-floor library building – including in tucked-away spots like the rare book room.
Reshelving Books
Since the unexpected shutdown, staff and programs have been on intralibrary loan to other branches. Many items are back in circulation thanks to a “pop up” library in a mall basement.
The temporary Phoenix Public Library branch in the lower level of Park Central Mall has books, computers, The Hive (co-working space), culture passes, a seed library, and lots of free parking.
It’s a way to provide services for downtown patrons until Burton Barr can be opened again, hopefully, sometime this summer.
– More Info –
- Free admission.
- Open to the public from 10am to 2pm, Monday through Friday.
- 200 W. Washington St., Phoenix, ground floor, just to the left of the metal detectors at the main entrance.
- Light rail: Washington/Central
- Parking: Street parking (metered) or 305 parking garage at 305 W. Washington St. ($4/hour)
- Pick up some free Phoenix public art postcards after you see the exhibit.
Phoenix Public Library @ Park Central
- Open Monday through Saturday 9am to 5pm (or later), 1-5pm on Sundays.
- 3110 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, basement level. Take the elevator beneath the big outdoor clock (between Jimmy John’s and Jamba Juice) down, and you’re there!
- Light rail: Indian School/Central
- Parking: free lot.
