Public use of large community rooms policy
This policy addresses the use of large community rooms, which is defined as spaces that accommodate more than 12 people, and require an application and approval for use.
Celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with the library
May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AANHPI). It’s a special time where we can reflect on and celebrate the remarkable role of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander community. In honor of AANHPI Heritage Month, join us in celebrating with programs and crafts at different libraries in May.
The Spanish-speaking library team meets people where they are
The Spanish language team collaborates with schools, community partners and nonprofits to connect with patrons in and out of the library.
Chinese and Vietnamese patrons share what they love about the library
Multnomah County Library offers Chinese and Vietnamese language services to serve Portland’s vibrant Asian community. Patrons and Multnomah County voters make the library and its services possible, and some of them have shared how the library has made a difference in their life.
Annie Lewis, Multnomah County Library’s new Interim Director of Libraries
Multnomah County Library Deputy Director Annie Lewis is temporarily serving as Multnomah County Library Interim Director of Libraries, following the retirement of longtime Director of Libraries Vailey Oehlke.
For performers and presenters
Library programs help people learn, create have fun and understand the world. Our programs positively impact our diverse community by revealing shared values from our unique experiences. We welcome applications from community members and experienced instructors who want to present at the library.
Albina Library’s relocation history
Albina Library — its past defined by growth-triggering relocation — has a storied history in its current home.
Join Tween Council at the library!
Multnomah County Library’s Tween Council provides youth ages 9-12 the opportunity to advise the library on services for tweens. Youth can socialize with peers and earn volunteer credit at the same time!
15 influential LGBTQ+ people of our time
This Pride Month, the library is recognizing the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) communities. Through the sharing of their own experiences, talents and advocacy, they’ve become influential voices for our time.
Library teams bring Native author to local teens & families
Multnomah County Library's Indigenous and teen services teams will welcome acclaimed Native author Cynthia Leitich Smith (Mvskoke) to two high schools.
Visit the refreshed Central Library!
Central Library, beloved by the community since 1913, is now open with modern enhancements for you to enjoy. This historic building maintains its charm while offering new updates to better serve you. The refreshed Central Library is now brighter and more open, with new modern features for library users.
North Portland Library breaks ground
On May 19, Multnomah County Library broke ground on one of its most historic building projects, North Portland Library.
Woodstock Library closing for refresh
The last day Woodstock Library is open to the public is March 17. It is scheduled to reopen in summer 2025. Woodstock is one of 11 libraries receiving small but essential refreshes to provide a safe, modern and welcoming space for library patrons. Similar projects at other libraries have taken about four months to complete.
Honor Black History Month 2025
February is Black History Month, a time to honor and celebrate Black history and culture. The Association for the Study of African American Life and History has selected a theme every year since 1928. The theme for 2025 is African Americans and Labor.
Juneteenth at the library: History and ways to celebrate with family
The first Juneteenth in Portland was led by Clara Peoples in 1945.
A new library Operations Center!
The library’s new Operations Center is complete! The building is the first of the library’s capitol building projects, funded by the 2020 voter-approved bond, to open on time and within budget.
10 ways to celebrate Black history at the library
The theme for Black History Month 2024 is “African Americans and the Arts.” Celebrate this year’s theme with these suggestions.
The library’s Spanish-speaking team
Spanish-speaking library staff can help you find connections and resources that are applicable to your specific cultural needs.
Multnomah County Library and Regional Arts & Culture Council announce community artists as part of wide-reaching public art commissions
Artists bring community-centered approach to their artwork across libraries
What’s open? What’s closed? Library construction projects in 2024 so far
This year has been busy for your Multnomah County Library system. You’ve seen libraries close for construction, plus new and renovated ones re-open. These are exciting times as each library is updated for you to enjoy.
March Mathness
This March, kids can learn how math can be fun by participating in March Mathness!
Patron spotlight: Frances Spann
When Frances Spann would come into the library for technology help, she was determined to finish writing, editing and publishing her life story.
With the help of Lynnea Amend, staff technology trainer, and Andrew Nilsen, bilingual Spanish tech help coordinator, Frances Spann learned new technology skills and made two new friends.
A Juneteenth legacy
On June 17, 2021, Juneteenth became a federal holiday. This monumental day was made possible by the countless efforts of strong community leaders. Among them is Opal Lee - coined as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.”