[1][2] The main entrance to the library was part of the Stoa of Hadrian with columns of Karystian marble and Pentelic capitals.

[3] The building followed a Roman forum architectural style, having only one entrance with a propylon of Corinthian order, a high surrounding wall with protruding niches (oikoi, exedrae) at its long sides, an inner courtyard surrounded by columns and a decorative oblong pool in the middle.

The library was seriously damaged by the Herulian invasion of 267 and repaired by the prefect Herculius in 407–412.

During Byzantine times, three churches were built at the site, the remains of which are preserved: Around the same period as the cathedral another church, Agios Asomatos sta Skalia, was built against the north facade, but it is not preserved.

A colossal statue of the goddess Nike/Victoria is exhibited on the site, excavated in the Library in 1988.