Synonyms

public library

American

noun

a nonprofit library established for the use of the general public and maintained chiefly by public funds.

Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

public libraries

plural

Etymology

Origin of public library

First recorded in 1605–15

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

public library

Valgeir Gestsson runs the music section at a public library near Reykjavík’s buzzing city center, where English-speaking tourists relax in restaurants and coffee shops.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 28, 2026

He studied hydraulics, civil engineering and Shakespeare at the public library and impressed everyone with his pluck and problem-solving prowess.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 6, 2026

The statement added that KN95 masks will be distributed for free at public library branches around the city.

From BBC ● Jul. 15, 2026

There is also a sprawling playground and a public library.

From Barron's ● Jun. 4, 2026

“Our public library is three blocks away on Las Flores. You can walk there.”

From "The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman" by Gennifer Choldenko

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023