The Kirk-Bear Canyon Library (“Bear Canyon Library,” for short) opened in January 1991 in a retail shopping center at the corner of Tanque Verde and Bear Canyon Roads in northeast Tucson.
The 15,000 square foot library – which serves both city and county residents – boasts a children’s area, a teen area, two study rooms, a computer lab, and a large meeting room.
This branch is named after James Lee “Jim” Kirk (1926–2003), who served three terms on the Tucson City Council and was the Pima County Treasurer for eight terms.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Where is Kirk-Bear Canyon Library located?
At the corner of Tanque Verde and Bear Canyon Roads in Northeast Tucson. The address is: 8959 E. Tanque Verde Road.
What are the hours?
- Monday – Thursday: 10am–8pm
- Friday: 10am–5pm
- Saturday: 9am–5pm
- Sunday: 1pm–5pm
What is the parking situation at the library?
Free and plentiful.
Why would I visit the Kirk-Bear Canyon Library?
- To check out materials – including DVDs, audio books, CDs, cookbooks, novels, and children’s books.
- To attend a Storytime with your baby, toddler, or preschooler.
- To browse the rotating art displays, featuring work by local artists.
- To use wifi, wireless printing, or one of the public computers
- To conduct a meeting or study in one of the library’s meeting spaces.
- To shop at a Friends of the Kirk Bear Canyon Library Sale.
- To seek Job Help and get support with everything from creating an email account to resume writing.
How much does it cost?
Admission to libraries is always free.
What is the cost of a library card?
FREE! Library cards are available as a complimentary amenity for all Pima County residents.
Are bathrooms available?
Yes.
DINING
Is outside food allowed in the library?
No, but there is a Dairy Queen and Circle K within walking distance. In addition, there are three restaurants in the same complex: Great American Steakburger, Bear Canyon Pizza, and Viv’s Café.
What restaurants are located NEAR Kirk-Bear Canyon Library?
There are a plethora of outstanding dining options in the area! Our top picks within 5 miles are:
- Bear Canyon Pizza, 8987 E. Tanque Verde Rd (0.2 miles away) – pizza, pasta, beer, kid-friendly
- Le Buzz, 9121 e. Tanque Verde Rd (0.4 miles away) – breakfast, lunch, espresso bar, coffee
- Zona 78, 7301 E. Tanque Verde Rd (2.3 miles away) – pizza, pasta, wine, happy hour
- Prep & Pastry, 6450 E. Grant Rd (3.6 miles away) – breakfast, brunch, lunch, pastries, coffee
- Zinburger, 6390 E. Grant Rd (3.6 miles away) – burgers, milkshakes
BABIES & KIDS
Should I bring a stroller?
The library is small and walking will be minimal so a stroller is probably unnecessary.
Is there a designated area for nursing moms?
No. That said, there are comfortable chairs located throughout the library.
Are changing tables available?
Yes – in both the men’s and women’s restrooms.
What ages would be best suited for a library visit?
All ages!
EVENTS
Can I have my child’s birthday party, wedding reception, or corporate meeting at the Kirk-Bear Canyon Library?
The Kirk-Bear Canyon Library has one large meeting room that holds 94 people (Induction Loop Technology for the hearing impaired is available) and two study rooms. The rooms can be used at no charge “for organizations engaged in educational, cultural, civic, intellectual, or charitable activities.”
MISCELLANY
Is the Kirk-Bear Canyon Library active on social media?
Yes! Like Kirk-Bear Canyon Library on Facebook to stay up-to-date on classes and special events.
What else do I need to know before I go to the Kirk-Bear Canyon Library?
There are so many things that make Kirk-Bear Canyon Library special!
For starters, it’s open seven days a week and features more than 47,000 items in its collection. On average more than 21,500 people visit this library location every month.
At the Kirk-Bear Canyon Library, customers can choose from a wide variety of free programs for all ages, many of which are generously supported by the Friends of the Kirk-Bear Canyon Library. For kids, there’s Read to a Dog, Babytime, Toddler & Preschool Storytime, Lego Club, Homework Help, and much more. Youth Services Librarian Bill R. (aka Mr. Bill) has worked at this library for 19 years! In fact, he’s conducted so many Storytimes, he now has the pleasure of getting to know the children of the now grown adults he once read stories to!
The Kirk-Bear Canyon Library has lots of windows and natural light. In addition to its monthly calendar, its large collection, and numerous computers, this location also has an art gallery that showcases the work of local artists.
That just about covers it. Have a great time!
