At least six bridges span the Cedar River in Renton. But only one of them is engineered for library carts. As far as anyone seems to know Renton’s library, completed in 1966, is the only library that is also a bridge. With streamlined midcentury charm, floor-to-ceiling windows, an outdoor balcony on the south side for river-gazing, the library is a peaceful respite, a historical marker, and a unique architectural treasure. 

You may know Suzzallo as the facade that holds things together architecturally at UW’s Red Square: the gothic gravity amid all that brick. But the real magic is inside, upstairs in the massive reading room that instantly transports visitors to Oxford, Cambridge, or maybe even Hogwarts. Just remember to use your inside voice. 

The Central Library isn’t new anymore (it opened in 2004). But as you wander up its central ramp, it still feels like a marvel, full of surprises and delights and possibilities. Architectural critics think this is one of the best buildings in America (“a blazing chandelier to swing your dreams upon,” per The New York Times). It also happens to have room for 1.5 million books, and plenty of comfy spaces to settle up with one. 

A library in a former auto dealership? Why not. The art deco digs of the state’s biggest library for folks unable to read standard printed material is located in Denny Triangle, though the inside was remodeled to make room for a huge collection of braille, talking, and large-print books—and a staff trained to help readers of all ages.