PORTLAND, Ore.– Capitol Hill Library is reopening to the public on February 1, 2024, welcoming patrons into an exciting, reinvigorated library space.
The work at Capitol Hill Library was one of the first bond-funded Refresh projects, providing smaller but still important upgrades to 10 libraries.
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. As part of this work, the library system will see a dramatic reinvention by building and expanding nine libraries and developing a series of Refresh projects at libraries across the system.
Capitol Hill Library closed to the public on May 17, 2023 to undertake these bond and capital funded improvements.
Exterior of the newly updated Capitol Hill Library
As one of the first libraries to reopen as part of these projects, new features at Capitol Hill include:
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Improved shelf height to create more space for people and better sight lines
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An inviting children’s area with soft seating and colorful animal chairs
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An engaging teen space with movable furniture for studying, projects and maker programs
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New, comfortable reading room chairs (both with and without arms) as well as new lounge chairs in the adult area
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Automated materials handling to increase the efficiency of checking in and sorting materials, getting items to patrons more efficiently
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Fresh paint and new carpet for an updated, inviting experience
The updated children’s area at Capitol Hill Library
“Multnomah County Library is following through on its promises to the community,” said Vailey Oehlke, Director of Libraries. “Thanks to our community’s patience and flexibility during construction, we’re so excited to greet everyone as they walk through the doors of the beautiful, refreshed Capitol Hill.”
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About Multnomah County Library
A treasured community institution since 1864, Multnomah County Library is one of the nation’s busiest public library systems, providing social, educational and cultural programs, resources and services, online and through its 19 public locations. With an eye toward the future of community-centered spaces, the library is working to build, rebuild or expand eight libraries through a voter approved capital bond. In addition to being Oregon’s largest provider of free internet access, the library offers millions of print and digital resources, in multiple languages for people of all ages. From kindergarten readiness to job training, computer-assisted design and 3D printing, the library supports all people in their pursuits to connect, learn and create. Learn more at multcolib.org