January 2026
Dear Multnomah County Library patrons and friends,
As we begin 2026, I am filled with excitement and gratitude for all that we accomplished together last year, and for the bright future ahead for our library system.
Building better libraries for you
Last year was a time of transformation, primarily driven by the ongoing efforts of our Multnomah County Library Capital Bond to modernize and expand our library spaces. This essential work sets the foundation for a sustainable, forward-looking library system designed with our community to serve our community for generations to come. These improvements involved sometimes lengthy service interruptions. We are grateful for your patience while we improved our libraries.
Our libraries are busy and beloved! It is clear that you love and use the new spaces we have created, with door counts in some new locations double or triple the previous number of visits. Your positive response — evidenced by the widespread use of new community rooms and increased visits — shows that the community asked for bigger and better spaces, and you are showing up to take advantage of them.
The momentum of the bond continued throughout 2025. We were thrilled to open the beautiful Albina and North Portland libraries, establish a temporary St. Johns Holds Pickup location, and complete renovations at Kenton, Rockwood, Woodstock, and Sellwood-Moreland libraries.
And the excitement continues in early 2026:
- On January 10, we unveiled the stunning new Northwest Library on Pettygrove Street.
- Early this year the refreshed Hollywood Library will reopen its doors.
- Later this spring and summer, we will also celebrate the highly anticipated openings of the East County, Belmont, and St. Johns libraries.
Your library experience
Our dedicated staff continued to provide the exceptional service you rely on. Every day, they work to ensure our libraries are welcoming and supportive spaces for everyone. Because of their commitment, in 2025, our patrons:
- Enjoyed rich and engaging cultural events and programs.
- Received vital books and literacy support both inside and outside the libraries.
- Participated in classes to help build new skills.
- Made friendships in library storytimes and formed social connections in teen spaces.
- Had thousands of questions answered to help with life needs.
- Connected with loved ones around the globe using library technology.
- Accessed services and materials on our website, by phone and in libraries.
- Checked out books that expanded their perspectives and knowledge of the world.
- And much more!
Our library staff are truly the heart of our organization, and we thank them for creating the very best library experience for our community.
A community that cares
The past year also brought local and global difficulties that impacted many of our neighbors and friends. In the midst of these challenges, we were proud to see our library system step up to help. Your library served as an essential resource, supporting our elections process and extended hours as warming and cooling spaces during extreme weather. We are committed to being a supportive anchor for our community, no matter the circumstances.
Looking ahead
As we look ahead, we are genuinely excited about the opportunities 2026 holds. We are committed to finishing the bond work as promised, continually improving your library experience, and upholding our values as we navigate the changes ahead.
We invite you to keep sharing your input and experiences with us. Your thoughts and ideas are incredibly valuable in helping us shape the future of Multnomah County Library. Your ongoing support and patronage are absolutely essential to the success of our library system.
Wishing you and your loved ones a healthy, happy, and fulfilling New Year!
Best wishes,
Annie