Architects: Bora Architecture & Interiors; Convergence Architecture
General contractor: Howard S. Wright, a Balfour Beatty company
Size and location: Adding 2,900 square feet on the existing site
Timeline: Closing to begin construction on October 11, 2024; scheduled to be complete spring 2026
Gifts to The Library Foundation will support an interactive early learning space, mobile creative learning lab, and a study space for teens at St. Johns Library.
Get involved
What do you want your library to look like? Join in these upcoming community events and let’s build these libraries together.
Community events will be updated as they are scheduled.
New features
St. Johns Library will be renovated and expanded. The existing building will remain and around 2,900 more square feet will be added.
Based on community input, new features will include:
- A large 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 represents the community.
Get a sneak peek at the new interior color at St. Johns Library. The color was voted on by you, the community. This concept draws inspiration from the view of Forest Park across the river. Cool greens and blues work with warm tones, reflecting the fall leaves and diverse colors in nature.
Centering the community
Community input will be vital to the design process. Convergence Architecture is based in St. Johns. They will help keep their focus on the needs of the neighborhood. Engagement will likely include a series of public community events, focus groups, surveys and more.
The library and design team will work with Community Design Advocates (CDAs) as part of a paid program. Their mission will be to connect with their communities about how this library can represent them. Community engagement will also include a series of public community events, focus groups, surveys and more.
