public library

American  

noun

public libraries plural

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

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• public libraries
  plural

Etymology

Origin of public library

First recorded in 1605–15

Example Sentences

It combines elements of a museum and reading room with community centre amenities such as a playground, basketball court, recording studio and public library.

From BBC • Jun. 18, 2026

There is also a sprawling playground and a public library.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

In South Hadley, Lisa Wong, the town administrator, has held a number of information sessions, including at the airy modern public library overlooking the Connecticut River where it spills over a century-old dam.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

“We all met working for a public library, so it was kind of meant to be an extension of a public library,” Fabry said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 12, 2026

“I’d already gone through most of the books in the public library near us and was beginning to want chess books of my own,” Bobby said later, reflecting back on the period.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady