Get in touch at hello@omahacentrallibrary.org
Get in touch at hello@omahacentrallibrary.org
* construction UPDATE *
Construction Focus Moves to Exterior Walls
Omaha Public Library’s new Central Library will begin to look more like the renderings this summer as construction crews start to build the exterior walls of the building. At the beginning of May, workers celebrated the traditional builders’ rite of “topping out” as they wrapped up the structural steel work on the building. An evergreen tree and an American flag were placed on the final beam as it was lifted into place.
The high-tech collection system, called an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS), is so large that it has already been placed inside the structure and will be kept safely encased until the exterior construction is complete. Central Library will be the first public library in the United States to have a storage system like this.
The ASRS will support citywide distribution of books by storing items from Omaha Public Library’s large collection, allowing library branches to utilize more space for neighborhood-driven programming while still providing an abundance of books and materials in every branch for patrons to discover and enjoy.
Staff members from Omaha Public Library and Do Space are partnering with construction and design teams on interior and exterior details of the library, including selecting furniture, art, technology, and more. They also are looking forward to collaborating with local artists selected in the Central Library’s Call for Art throughout the design and installation process.
* LIBRARY FACILITIES PLAN UPDATE *
Thank you, Omaha!
Omaha residents worked together in spring 2023 to develop a community-driven 2023 Library Facilities Plan. Over 5,000 people contributed to the process by participating in a citywide neighborhood survey, visioning activities, and a series of open house events.
Along with library staff, the national library experts at Margaret Sullivan Studio reviewed the Omaha community’s input to inform an aspirational 20-year vision and outline future library recommendations.
The plan was endorsed by the Omaha Public Library Board of Trustees at its June 2023 meeting and was presented to the public at a community share out at the beginning of August. Read the plan on the Omaha Public Library website or watch the video of the presentation below.
“I want books, technology and art in our library enfolded inside a magnificent architectural space. Please, give Omaha something inspiring. A gleaming Cathedral of learning.”
KEVIN P.
omaha public library user
How did we get here?
Review the community engagement findings that helped design the new Omaha Central Public Library →
A key step in the schematic design and engagement phase for the new Omaha Central Public Library was to gain input from as many Omahans as possible. This included collecting over 1,600 survey responses, connecting with hundreds of diverse community organization leaders, and hosting a public open house at OPL’s A.V. Sorensen Branch.
Read the community engagement findings that inspired vital design elements and created a shared project vision.
During the engagement phase, attendee responses reinforced the belief that in Omaha, libraries are the beloved backbone of the city.
With great excitement about the new Omaha Central Public Library, people shared thoughtful questions related to the selection of 72nd and Dodge, the accessibility of public transportation, and the level of collaboration between project partners. For answers to these questions and more, please visit the FAQ page.
“I want the library to serve as a hub of learning. I want the library to feel like it exists for everyone. That people feel like it is THEIR library. I want the services to go beyond books, and have it be an inclusive landing place for individuals.”
ELIZABETH P.
Omaha public library user