Public Libraries in NC
United States
Public Libraries in North Carolina
Find public libraries across North Carolina — hours, addresses, digital resources and free programs near you.
20
Cities Covered
20
Libraries Listed
Free
Library Cards
North Carolina's public libraries are supported by the State Library of North Carolina and serve communities across the state. This directory covers 20 cities including Charlotte, Winston-Salem, Asheville, Archdale, Boone, Chapel Hill, Clemmons — with hours, addresses, phone numbers, and the free digital services available to North Carolina residents.
Browse Libraries by City
More North Carolina Libraries
WASHINGTON
Beaufort-Hyde-Martin Regional Library System
Beaufort-Hyde-Martin Regional Library — Washington Headquarters →
⭐ Featured Library
Elkin Public Library
One of the leading public libraries in North Carolina, serving the local community with books, digital resources, programs and free Wi-Fi.
About Public Libraries in North Carolina
North Carolina has a strong network of public libraries serving communities of all sizes, from busy city systems to small rural reading rooms. Supported by the State Library of North Carolina, these libraries provide free access to books, digital resources, broadband internet, educational programs, and community gathering spaces for all residents.
Most North Carolina public libraries offer free library cards to state residents and participate in statewide digital library programs, giving cardholders access to thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, and streaming films from home using apps like Libby (OverDrive).
Use the city directory above to find your nearest public library in North Carolina, including current hours, contact information, and details on available services and programs.
📚 What North Carolina Libraries Offer
- 📖 Books, DVDs, audiobooks & magazines
- 💻 Digital eBooks & audiobooks (Libby / OverDrive)
- 🎬 Streaming films (Kanopy or Hoopla)
- 📡 Free Wi-Fi & public computers
- 👶 Children’s storytimes & programs
- 🎓 Adult learning & literacy programs
- 📚 Interlibrary loan network
🗺️ Quick Facts
| Cities covered | 20 |
| Libraries listed | 20 |
| Digital platform | Libby / OverDrive |
| Streaming | Kanopy / Hoopla |
| Library card cost | Free for residents |
Free Digital Resources
📚 NC LIVE — Free for North Carolina Residents
NC LIVE is North Carolina's statewide library cooperative, giving residents free access to ebooks, streaming video, magazine and journal articles, and career, test-prep, and language-learning tools through their local member library. Users simply select their library to log in.
🎫 New to the library in NC? See our step-by-step guide on how to get a library card — what you need, applying online, non-resident options and cards for kids.
Frequently Asked Questions
Special services at North Carolina libraries
Beyond books, many North Carolina public libraries offer these services — browse the verified, up-to-date list for each: