It’s an exciting time for our library spaces. Since voters approved the Multnomah County Library Capital Bond in 2020, we have renovated and expanded multiple libraries, including Holgate, Midland, North Portland and many more. Some smaller “refresh” construction projects, like Rockwood Library, have yet to begin.
The last day Rockwood Library is open to the public is April 21. It’s scheduled to reopen after construction in fall 2025. Rockwood is one of 11 libraries receiving small but essential refreshes to provide a safe, modern and welcoming space for our patrons. Similar library refreshes have taken about four months to complete.
New features will include:
- An inviting children’s space with fun, movable animal chairs
- A designated spot for patrons to scan, copy and use library computers
- New reading room chairs and more table space
- Fresh paint and new carpet
- And much more!
While Rockwood is closed for construction, the library will provide temporary services for the community. Consider using these alternate libraries for services during Rockwood’s closure:
- Midland Library at 805 SE 122nd Ave. in Portland (a 20-minute bus ride from Rockwood)
- Gresham Library at 385 NW Miller Ave. in Gresham (a 26-minute train ride from Rockwood)
- Troutdale Library at 2451 SW Cherry Park Rd. in Troutdale (a 32-minute bus ride from Rockwood)
During construction, Rockwood Library’s makerspace will move to Midland Library. The temporary makerspace at Midland will open on May 13 and will return to Rockwood once the library has reopened in fall 2025.
“The temporary relocation of our makerspace to the Midland Library during the Rockwood Library construction is an exciting opportunity for our community,” said Creative Learning Supervisor Nicholas Wolff. “While we'll miss our usual space, this move allows us to continue offering our valuable services without interruption. At the Midland location, members can expect the same innovative environment, access to creative specialty equipment and collaborative atmosphere that they've come to love. We're viewing this as a chance to reach new audiences and potentially incorporate fresh ideas into our program. We look forward to welcoming both familiar faces and newcomers to our temporary home at Midland, where creativity will continue to thrive!”
If you’re curious why multiple libraries are closed at the same time, it’s because we want you to get the most for your money. The library bond required project teams to spend most of the funds in a short time. A slower schedule would have meant less money for library improvements and a higher cost due to inflation and supply chain issues. By closing libraries at the same time, we can better use available funds to create spaces that best serve our community.
We can’t wait to share these updated libraries with you!