• Major renovations for the Hayden Heights and Riverview libraries
• A new library facility in the Hamline-Midway neighborhood
• Interactive Play and Learn spaces for families to enjoy in every branch
• Technology investments in all 13 neighborhood libraries
• A new fund to preserve children, youth, and family programs and services

All designs for branch improvements will aim to maximize accessibility to the furthest extent possible, ensuring our libraries are inviting, affirming, and comfortable for people of all cultures, abilities, and communities.

All library transformations will meet the City’s sustainability standards, which were created with the goal of making Saint Paul a leader in sustainable urban living.

The renovation plans and improvements for the libraries were shaped by a robust, equity-focused community engagement process. Saint Paul Public Library (SPPL) worked with LSE Architects and industry experts, hosting open houses, community meetings, and surveys that included the voices of more than 3,000 community members. Special attention was paid to historically excluded groups, including young people, BIPOC communities, people who identify as trans or non-binary, and people with disabilities. The decisions were made based on the collective input of the community and technical guidance from expert partners.​

Saint Paul Public Library is overseeing all renovations, working closely with their design partner, LSE Architects. They coordinate efforts with various industry experts and contractors to ensure the renovations align with the community’s vision and strategic goals.​

The actual renovation work is being carried out by professional contractors selected by SPPL in consultation with LSE Architects. These teams are responsible for construction and implementation, following the community-informed designs and plans developed through the public engagement process.​

Our libraries are well-loved, well-used, and well-worn. Identifying improvements has been in the works since 2018. Hamline Midway, Hayden Heights, and Riverview have not been renovated in over 30 years, and many branches do not have adequate technology and learning spaces required to meet the needs of our community in the 21st century. Neighbors are looking for safe, accessible spaces with meeting rooms, study rooms, spaces to play and learn, and resources that continue to evolve with them.

Construction and renovations are already underway in some branches. Project timelines will vary, and it is best to check with your local branch or the SPPL website for the latest news on planned upgrades and/or temporary closures.

Most renovation work is focused on Hamline-Midway, Hayden Heights, and Riverview libraries. If your library is not one of these three, it is unlikely to close or undergo major renovations at this time. However, smaller updates or improvements may still occur, and SPPL will provide advance notice of any temporary closures or service disruptions.

If your local library is temporarily closed, SPPL encourages you to visit other nearby library locations. Additional information about alternative services and possible pop-up events or temporary service sites is provided through the library’s website at sppl.org.

Project timelines will vary, and it is best to check with your local branch or the SPPL website for the latest news on planned upgrades and/or temporary closures.