King County Library System - Burien Branch

About Us:

The Burien Library Guild is a non-profit organization comprised of citizens who are committed to supporting library services. Guild members provide a vital link to the community, increasing knowledge about the library's functions and needs and offering valuable input to its operations. Through on going book sale proceeds and membership dues, the Guild raises money for activities and items which are not funded by the regular library budget. The Guild has donated a piano, an electric cart for disabled patrons and materials for the Northwest History Collection. They also furnish support for live performances for audiences of all ages. Many Guild members are active volunteers throughout the Burien Library. New members are welcome to join the Guild.

Burien's 1st library opened its doors in 1938 at SW 9th and 152nd SW, with its books coming from community donations. The fee was 25 cents per person per year and entitled the card holder to take out two books and two magazines at a time. The librarian, paid by the WPA, varnished a desk, made draperies and brought wood from her home each day to build and keep the fire going.

In 1943, the library moved into the caretaker's cottage at the Burien Playfield. The following year, Burien Library became a branch of the King County Library System. Margrette Lemon, for whom the multi purpose room is named, became the head librarian in 1946 and remained in charge for over 20 years. Running out of room the library moved to the corner of 4th Avenue SW and SW 153rd Street in May 1956 with 20,000 books then to its current site (14700 6th SW) in Feb. 1970.

The Burien Library was enlarged and remodeled in 1992 - 93 and re opened in May 1993 with an additional 5,000 square feet, for a total of 20,000 sq. ft. The library now houses over 100,000 books plus video cassettes, compact discs, documents and more. We offer a wide range of informational, educational and recreational resources for users of all ages.

A unique collection is in the Northwest Room, with its emphasis on Northwest History.