The leadership at the Columbus Metropolitan Library has been busy with renovations and expansion plans at multiple locations recently, including Northside, Marion-Franklin, Parsons Avenue and Driving Park. Today the focus returns to the main Downtown library, where a huge new renovation project is planned to expand, modernize and update the historic building for future library users.
“Columbus Metropolitan Library has long been an integral part of our downtown community,” said CML CEO Patrick Losinski. “This renovation of our flagship location marks a reinvestment in the Discovery District and a recommitment to our customers.”
The renovations are scheduled to start in early 2015 and expected to be completed in several phases through 2016. In addition to renovating the entire 600,000 square foot building, the project is expected to connect the library to the Topiary Park to provide long-anticipated outdoor reading spaces. The front entrance on Grant Avenue is also planned for renovation with a new outdoor plaza space.
The project, which was first proposed nearly two years ago, marks the first major update to the building since 1991. The original library was completed in 1907. The library will continue to be open to the public during all phases of construction.
For more information, visit www.columbuslibrary.org.
Renderings provided by GUND Partnership and Schooley Caldwell Associates.