A better Central Library for you

Alt text for image: Aerial view of Central’s updated exterior with two terraces for outdoor seating

Multnomah County Library has cared for this historic building while making changes to better serve patrons. Central Library is now brighter and more open, with new modern features for library users. 

Photos: Central Library improvements

Improvements for library users

  • Comfortable seating 
  • New carpeting on all three public floors
  • Fresh paint in large public spaces
  • More meeting rooms and gathering spaces
  • More outlets and USB charging ports
  • A new Friends of the Library store on the first floor
  • Improved wayfinding signage with icons and translations
  • Automated materials handling to check in, sort and route books
  • A teen space with comfortable seating 
  • Lower shelves, allowing more light inside, making books easier to see and browse

Enhanced restrooms

  • New, 10-stall gender inclusive restrooms
  • Two family restrooms on the first floor (one is new)
  • Refreshed second and third floor restrooms with new fixtures, counters, flooring and tile

And more!

Multnomah County Library is building, expanding and renovating library spaces for the community as a result of the voter-approved 2020 Library building bond. The library system is undergoing its biggest expansion and transformation in more than a century.

For help using the library, please contact us.

Image
Alt text for image: Soft blue seats are centered in a yellow room with bookshelves lining the walls

Soft blue seats are centered in a yellow room with bookshelves lining the walls