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The Saint Louis Public Library, Central building, is one of St. Louis‘ architectural treasures. The building was designed by Cass Gilbert in 1912 and was one of the first public buildings to be designed by Gilbert. It is modified Italian Renaissance in style with a simple symmetrical plan with excellent proportions. It was made possible in part by a $500,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie. The Central Library is built of Maine granite and features a monumental staircase leading to the entrance on Olive Street.

The Italian Renaissance style is carried into the richly crafted and detailed foyer and main reading room featuring beautiful stained glass windows, stenciled ceilings and glass floors. The two-story central hall is covered by a lavishly decorated, coffered ceiling and is the showplace of the building.

The Saint Louis Public Library is located on Olive Street between Thirteenth and Fourteenth Streets.