Making a better Central Library for you

Revised March 7, 2023

Sketch of renovated Central Library aerial view from north

Multnomah County Library is hard at work to build, expand and renovate library spaces for the public as a result of the voter-approved 2020 Library building bond. The library system is undergoing its biggest expansion and transformation in more than a century.

Construction for improvements at Central Library began in July 2022 and will continue into early 2024. 

Phase one (July 2022 – October 2022)

  • New outdoor terrace space
  • Reconstructed and improved ADA access
  • Start of 1st floor restroom expansion
  • Upgraded technical infrastructure 
  • Significant preparations for phase two improvements 

Phase two (March 11, 2023 – winter 2023-24)

  • Expanded patron restrooms on the 1st floor
  • Refreshed restrooms on the 2nd and 3rd floor
  • A new, dedicated teen space
  • Renovated children’s space
  • Meeting room upgrades
  • Added community space
  • Updates to collection locations
  • New automated technologies for faster holds and easy returns
  • New flexible seating; increased seating
  • Added power outlets and new paint, carpet and furniture
  • Completion of outdoor terraces and improved emergency egress

Sketch of renovated Central Library ground level exterior looking north

The nearest libraries to Central are:
Northwest Library: 2300 NW Thurman Street
Hillsdale Library: 1525 SW Sunset Boulevard
Belmont Library: 1038 SE César E. Chávez Boulevard 

For help using the library, please contact us.