Julia Ideson Reading Room
Julia Ideson Reading Room
4.5
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Duration: 1-2 hours
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4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles10 reviews
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5
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DaveHayTX
Houston, TX49 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2019
Houston's main Public Library is a picturesque building that was the city's first public library. I sort of knew that, but I never looked inside before yesterday.

It is exquisite! The original Carnegie Library was built in 1906, but the core of this one wasn't built until 1926.

There is indeed a wonderful reading room. With not only wired tables, but also cushy chairs to relax in, plus a conference room next door.
Written January 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Jeffrey M
Houston, TX14 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2014 • Solo
This is a great recently renovated building with a reading room, viewing balcony, exhibit hall, murals and Texas archives. The building was named after Houston's first professional librarian and features many tables and nooks for quiet reading or studying, along with balconies to step outside and view downtown. Across for the reading room is an exhibit hall that features works from local artists.The building is located across from the Central HPL location and can't be missed by its beautiful facade. Be sure to check the Houston Public Library website for events at the Julia Ideson Building!
Written March 23, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

baywanderer
San Francisco, CA328 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2019 • Couples
This beautiful bundling with its historic displays is a hidden treasure in Houston. One hour is all you will need to take it in but if you are in the downtown area it is well worth your time.
Written March 6, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Sheryl B
North Bethesda, MD1,080 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2016 • Couples
Great example of old public library. Nice old tile work, beautiful woodwork, and stunning ceiling in event space. There is an audio tour, and displays. Nice juxtaposition to modern surrounding buildings.
Written January 2, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Melissa Z
17 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2018
There is not a lot to do once you have toured the building, but the structure is lovely reminder of a previous era, and it's a great place for a quiet read.
Written July 29, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Anastasia P
Houston, TX64 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2016 • Friends
It's located next to the Houston Public Library and City Hall. Beautiful place and beautiful architecture! We were recommended to go here by a lady from City Hall! And glad we went here! 😍
Written June 2, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Marlies R
Houston, TX35 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Sep 2015
We looked into having our wedding take place here, but seeing as I was living abroad at the time of the preparations thought it too complicated as you only rent the "empty" room, have to bring in and organize every little thing like chairs and such. Having said that, the building is beautiful and very "grand". I have seen pictures of weddings there and think it would be incredible to have a wedding there
Written April 4, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

VOjoe
Houston, TX145 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2015
The Julia Ideson reading room is a wealth of knowledge about the history of Houston and Texas. The staff is very attentive and supportive.
Written August 12, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Matt R
Spring, Texas, United States9 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2014 • Family
This was the public library in 1927. Houston archives are in this building. The design in of the ceiling and the building itself is a great free tour. Also check out the Courthouse downtown. It was renovated and finished in 2011. The 100th anniversary of it's opening. Still an active courthouse for the 14th court of appeals.
Written December 21, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Julia Ideson Reading Room - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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