Belmont Library to close September 7 to begin construction on renovation and expansion

PORTLAND, Ore––August 14, 2024

Multnomah County Library is starting construction on one of its transformative renovations and expansions. Belmont Library will more than double in size to approximately 15,000 square feet, keeping the original 1924 brick building (last updated in 2000 and not a Carnegie building) and adding a new, two-story addition. 

To start on these updates and provide time for staff to move out, Belmont Library will provide door service only from August 31 to September 6. Belmont will close to the public on September 7 to start construction processes. 

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Draft rendering of Belmont Library’s exterior from the northwest

Draft rendering of Belmont Library’s exterior from the northwest courtesy of Bora Architecture and Interiors

Belmont Library is one of the busiest locations in the entire county, yet it has one of the smallest footprints (approximately 6,000 square feet). It’s a textbook example of the space shortage the library bond is working to fix. As part of the library bond, Belmont is one of seven libraries the library will expand, renovate or construct. Through updates, Belmont can serve patrons more efficiently with features that are engaging and representative of the community. 

New features for the Belmont community 

To amplify the community’s ideas, Community Design Advocates (CDAs) were part of a paid program to connect with their communities about how this library can represent them. 

Based on additional community input through focus groups, public meetings, surveys and more, new features will include:

  • A large interior play and learning space for children and families.
  • Flexible meeting spaces for community use.
  • A teen area with space for technology, homework and creative expression.
  • Updated technology and internet.
  • New art that reflects the community.
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Draft rendering of Belmont Library's lobby on the first floor

Draft rendering of Belmont Library lobby courtesy of Bora Architecture and Interiors 

“Belmont Library is one of the busiest libraries and serves an active role in the community every single day,” said Annie Lewis, Interim Director of Libraries. “As Belmont undergoes an exciting renovation and expansion, this updated library will be a truly beautiful and impactful place for everyone.” 

Bora Architecture and Interiors led the design for Belmont Library. Howard S. Wright, a Balfour Beatty company, is the General Contractor for this $28 million project.

Opening a temporary holds pickup location

During construction, due to Belmont being one of the busiest libraries, a temporary location at 3557 SE Hawthorne Blvd. will serve the community. This location, opening Monday, September 9, will offer limited services, including holds-pick up, Lucky Day items, 24/7 book returns and free mobile, wireless printing.

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Draft rendering of Belmont kids area

Draft rendering of Belmont’s children’s area courtesy of Bora Architecture and Interiors

During Belmont's construction, the library encourages patrons to visit the following locations for additional services beyond those provided at the temporary location:

Central Library: 801 SW 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97205

Holgate Library: 7905 SE Holgate Blvd., Portland, OR 97206

Belmont Library is scheduled to reopen in spring 2026. 

Community members can stay up-to-date on the latest news about Belmont Library and all Multnomah County Library building projects at multcolib.org/planning

Renderings of Belmont Library are courtesy of Bora Architecture and Interiors and available via Dropbox. 

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About Multnomah County Library

A treasured community institution since 1864, Multnomah County Library is one of the nation’s busiest public library systems, providing social, educational and cultural programs, resources and services, online and through its 19 public locations. With an eye toward the future of community-centered spaces, the library is working to build, rebuild or expand eight libraries through a voter approved capital bond. In addition to being Oregon’s largest provider of free internet access, the library offers millions of print and digital resources, in multiple languages for people of all ages. From kindergarten readiness to job training, computer-assisted design and 3D printing, the library supports all people in their pursuits to connect, learn and create. Learn more at multcolib.org