Get in touch at hello@omahacentrallibrary.org
Get in touch at hello@omahacentrallibrary.org
* construction UPDATE *
Structural Steel Work Nearing Completion
People passing by the corner of 72nd and Dodge streets can see the progress on the new Omaha Central Public Library. Construction crews expect to complete the structural steel work this spring and have the building exterior fully enclosed before summer.
The tower crane that has been used in construction is the first of its kind to be owned and constructed in the United States. The 180-foot-tall crane was customized for this project and can lift up to 35,000 pounds. Read more details about the crane from project partner Kiewit.
Crews will place a high-tech collection system called an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) inside the structure and keep it safely encased until it is installed later in the construction process. Omaha Public Library (OPL) will be the first public library system in the United States to have a storage system like this. Once the Central Library opens in 2026, the ASRS will support citywide distribution by storing items from OPL’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.
Omaha Public Library staff, Do Space staff, and the construction and design teams continue to work on the interior and exterior details of the library, including planning for the selection of furniture, art, technology, and more. Their goal is to make the library an inclusive, accessible, and inviting hub for creativity, collaboration, education, innovation, and workforce development. Click here for a look at current design plans.
* 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