About
Reason, curiosity and good company.
The Freethought Library is a volunteer-led, non-profit library and gathering place in Austin, Texas. It exists for people who value critical thinking, rationalism and the pursuit of truth through open-minded inquiry.
What we are
At the heart of the building is a library of donated and specially selected texts on science, skepticism, philosophy, secularism and related subjects. Around the shelves there is room to sit, read and talk.
The library also hosts a steady calendar of gatherings: discussion nights, lectures, book clubs, watch parties, game nights and live podcast tapings. Whether you have been a freethinker for decades or are just starting to ask questions, you are welcome here.
Who runs it
The library is kept by volunteers of the Atheist Community of Austin (ACA), a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit devoted to promoting atheism, critical thinking, secular humanism and the separation of religion and government. The ACA operates the building at 1507 West Koenig Lane, which also houses a community center, a broadcast studio and a store.
The volunteers on duty are knowledgeable and friendly, and happy to answer questions about the collection, the events or the organization.
How to help
- Show up. Come on a Sunday, or join an event. A room full of people is what makes the library work.
- Volunteer. Staffing hours, hosting discussions and keeping the shelves in order are all volunteer jobs. Start at the ACA's volunteer page.
- Donate. Gifts to the Atheist Community of Austin keep the building open. Snacks and drinks at the library are free, with a donation suggested.
- Ask about books. The collection is built from donations. Email info@freethoughtlibrary.org before bringing a box so a volunteer can plan for it.
Find us
1507 West Koenig Lane, Austin, Texas 78756. Open Sundays 12 to 6 pm and at other times by appointment. Details on the visit page.
Stay in the loop.
Events are announced on the library's Meetup group. Joining is free and takes a minute.