Omaha Exploration

Omaha is joining cities around the world in reimagining what a public library should be, transforming these institutions into places where people create, collaborate, learn, and build careers.

I had the opportunity to tour the new Central Public Library, which partner organizations including the Omaha Public Library, the City of Omaha, Heritage Omaha, and others described as one of the largest philanthropic commitments to a public library system in recent years. Designed to be inclusive and accessible, it serves all ages while providing access to information, services, and programs, along with meeting and creative spaces.

Located at the southwest corner of 72nd and Dodge Streets on the former site of Do Space, the three-story building was designed by HDR and Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture in a modern, contemporary style. Built by Kiewit, the 105,000-square-foot structure features extensive glass panels that flood the interior with natural light, tall ceilings, cedar accents, and sculptural staircases that combine to create a bright, open space. The building also showcases 16 works of art created by local artists, giving the space a connection to the community.

While the building is designed to stand out, the innovation continues inside. The interior features an Automated Storage and Retrieval System, the first of its kind in any public library in the country. The system can store over 600,000 materials distributed across all branches and has the added benefit of freeing up space at other locations, allowing for expanded programming.

The new building also brings Do Space back home. From 2015 until 2023, the nonprofit operated at this same intersection with a mission to connect the community with technology while providing hands-on learning experiences. It brings with it access to 3D printers, laser cutters, podcasting and video studios, a design studio, and even sewing machines.

The first floor serves as a collaborative, multi-purpose space with access to books and areas for community events, meetings, and conferences. Near the cafe operated by Zen Coffee is an indoor play area adjacent to an outdoor play area and garden. Between the first and second floors is a mezzanine that serves as a quiet retreat with seating for reading or observation, as well as meeting spaces. The second floor is sure to be an active space, as it contains Do Space along with the children’s and young adult sections. Containing both genealogy and local history, the third floor is the most representative of a traditional library. And for all of its innovation, the library still delivers the essentials: books, computers, scanners, and microfilm readers.

The Central Public Library replaces W. Dale Clark as the system’s main branch. Located downtown at the western end of Gene Leahy Mall, W. Dale Clark served as the main branch for 45 years before closing in 2022 to make way for Mutual of Omaha’s new headquarters. Despite the shift westward, a downtown presence remains at 1401 Jones Street.

While a main library branch outside the urban core is unusual, the location was the result of years of planning. Studies dating back to 2010 indicated that 72nd and Dodge Street offered the right combination of central location, transit access, an area being redeveloped, and an intersection that has served as a natural gathering place. It has the added benefit of a free, multi-level parking garage.

The Central Public Library opens Sunday, April 19th. It is worth the trip.

Sources

• Omaha Public Library’s Central Branch – Omaha Exploration
• The Historic Library Branch Downtown and the Origin of Omaha’s Public Library – Omaha Exploration
• Omaha Public Library’s Downtown Branch – Omaha Exploration
• https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/fundraising-for-omahas-new-central-library-surpasses-158m-goal/
• Design — Omaha Central Library
• Omaha Central Public Library | HDR