Osaka Prefectural Central Library

Osaka Prefectural Central Library is a public library operated by Osaka Prefecture that opened in 1996. Its distinctive building has received multiple architectural accolades, including the Encouragement Prize at the 17th Osaka Cityscape Awards and the Architectural Award from the Japan Library Association. It was also the first building to which the Osaka Prefecture Ordinance for Welfare-Oriented Urban Development was applied, making it a highly accessible, barrier-free facility designed with universal usability in mind. The library holds a collection of more than 2.8 million items, the largest number of holdings for a single public library building in Japan. Its vast collection includes picture books, magazines, maps, rare books, and a wide range of valuable historical and academic materials. In addition to ranking among the highest nationwide for in-library use and lending, the library is also known for its top-level reference services, providing expert research assistance to users across Japan. To borrow materials, users must live, work, or study in Osaka Prefecture, or reside within the broader Kansai region. Conveniently located about 400 meters northwest of Exit 1 of Aramoto Station on the Kintetsu Keihanna Line, the library is easily accessible for visitors. It also offers an underground parking garage with space for 120 vehicles; parking is free for the first 15 minutes, with weekday rates of 100 yen per 60 minutes (maximum 500 yen) and weekend and holiday rates of 150 yen per 60 minutes (maximum 600 yen), making it a practical stop for both local residents and sightseeing visitors.