Books & Audiobooks
Make Memories at the Main Library
The Main Library is the central hub of Waterloo Public Library. Located in the heart of Uptown Waterloo, the two-storey building features a separate children’s area, ample study space and WPL’s largest collection of browsable materials.
Two young boys play with magnet stacking toys in the Children's Department at the Main Library.
Children's Area
Enjoy a children's area with toys and activities to create a fun and educational space for young library visitors.
The book sale shelves at the Main Library full of books and magazines for purchase
Book Sale
Purchase used books and magazines. Proceeds of the book sale go toward library programs and services.
Close up of a table top photo scanner
Photo Scanner
Effortlessly digitize your documents and photos.
Close up of a light therapy lamp
Light Therapy Lamp
Boost your mood while you read or study in the library with a high-quality light therapy lamp.
Unique Items at the Main Library
In addition to a wide variety of books in English for readers of all ages, you can browse and borrow these unique collections at the Main Library. Please note that many of these items can be placed on hold to be picked up at a different location.
Daisy Books & Readers
Bike Locks
Cannot be placed on hold
DVDs for All Ages
CDs for All Ages
Books for Children in Other Languages
Chinese, French, Amharic, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, Ukrainian & Urdu
Books for Adults in Other Languages
Chinese & French
Graphic Novels for All Ages
A close up of ceramic flowers and leaves that make up BLOOM, an art instillation at the Main Library
BLOOM
Suzanne Del Rizzo (2025) | Main Library Art
In partnership with The Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery
BLOOM captures and reflects both the wonder and universal interconnectedness of the natural world and humankind. As flower buds bloom, and leaves and shoots grow and unfurl, sending out new explorative tendrils, insects and birds depend on these blooms for shelter and food to thrive and grow, just as our children grow and explore our world and community. It is a shared human experience – through family, community and shared connections. This art piece not only reflects these themes but was co-created in this spirit, with community contribution though artist-led public engagement workshops.
Urban Pulse
Pamela Rojas (2025) | Main Library Art
In partnership with The Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery
Together, we can shape a shared vision for our community. Through its presence, this public artwork serves as both a reflection of our city and a catalyst for action, encouraging us all to participate in creating the future we want to see. This mural is a vibrant, joyful visualization of our city, one that honors its past, embraces its present, and imagines its future.
Close up of colourful / abstract buildings that make up Urban Pulse, an art installation at the Main Library
Public art at the Main Library entitled Looking Outward & Inward
Looking Outward & Inward
Susan Low-Beer (1995) | Main Library Public Art
Intentionally open-ended, this sculpture doesn’t offer a conclusive narrative. It delves into the intricate dynamics between men and women, probing the aspects of both masculinity and femininity within each observer. Purposefully ambiguous, it mirrors a psychological complexity, encouraging viewers to interpret and construct their own narrative when engaging with the artwork.
Need a library card?
Getting a library card is your passport to a world of learning and discovery. With just a simple online application process, you can access a treasure trove of books, digital resources, exciting services, and cool things to borrow.