Omaha Exploration

On the southwest corner of 72nd and Dodge, the Central Public Library rises. The Omaha Public Library is constructing its new branch on the site that used to be home to Do Space and Border’s before that. With the razing of the W. Dale Clark Library downtown to make way for the Mutual of Omaha skyscraper, the Central Public Library will essentially become the main branch. The downtown branch, meanwhile, moved a few blocks south to a historic warehouse at 1401 Jones Street.

As cities across the country re-purpose their public libraries as hubs for creativity, collaboration, education, innovation and workforce development, Omaha is attempting to do the same with the Central Public Library. Kiewit, HDR and Alley Poyner Marchietto are the construction and design partners on the project. that will offer inclusive and accessible space designed with all generations in mind. It will offer members information and services as well as meeting and creative spaces. This new branch will combine both the Omaha Public Library and Do Space into a single building.

According to the Omaha Public Library, the new three-story, 96,000 sq ft branch is expected to be a “cultural and technological landmark that honors the past, celebrates the moment and imagines the future” and will be “an active, vibrant community hub offering equitable access, empowering resources and connective spaces.” The lifted corners on the east and west sides of the building mimic the opening of a book. It will feature local artwork throughout both the interior and exterior spaces of the library.

The first floor will act as a multi-purpose cultural commons area with open access to a variety of technology including computers, a play space for children, an event space, conference rooms, tables and books.

The second floor will house the children’s department, an area for young adults in addition to Do Space which will offer people of all ages the ability to experiment and learn about the latest technology including 3D printing, technical training, podcast studio and more.

The third floor will feature a quiet reading area, more access to technology, the library’s archival collection and displays of Nebraska’s history. It will also have a lower level staff space that will include a book drop-off, pick-up drive-thru window and a four-level parking garage.

With a $158M raised including a $20M commitment from the city, the new location marks one of the largest philanthropic commitments to a public library system in years. The library is expected to open in 2026.

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