Library service began in Tualatin in 1974. In 1977, Tualatin Public Library opened in a former house in Tualatin’s Community Park. From 1985-2007, the library operated in an 8,500 square foot space within the Civic Center building. A 2004 bond measure provided funds to expand the library. The $9.4 million, 22,500 square foot Tualatin Public Library opened in 2008.
The Library features dedicated Children and Teen areas, comfortable seating and social areas, a fireplace, two small-group meeting rooms, and a Community Room for Library programs and large gatherings. A unique highlight of the Library is its striking display of an articulated mastodon skeleton, which is mounted in front of an etched-glass image of a mastodon. The remodeled building was designed to be as energy efficient and sustainable as possible through the use of natural ventilation and energy-efficient lighting.
The Library currently houses more than 100,000 items and hosts 800+ programs each year.