Investing in Strong Libraries for a Strong Community
For more than 150 years, the Akron-Summit County Public Library has served our community through welcoming spaces, programs, and resources. Thanks to strong local support, including a property tax levy that has funded nearly half of our operating budget since 1984, we’ve been able to deliver high-quality library services for generations. The Library’s current operating levy will expire at the end of 2027.
In May 2025, voters approved a 1-mill, 20-year bond issue to fund necessary building repairs and improvements across all 19 library locations. These funds are restricted exclusively to facility and infrastructure projects.
Current Project Updates
Renovations are anticipated to be completed in Summer 2027, when Branches in Phase 1 will then reopen.
Why This Work Matters
- Library buildings are aging and require major repairs.
- Spaces must adapt to changing community needs, technology, and accessibility standards.
- Ohio public libraries receive no dedicated state funding for facilities.
- These investments will ensure strong library service for decades to come.
Project Goals
- Create welcoming, inclusive, and safe libraries for all.
- Support discovery, learning, and community interactions.
- Design for flexibility and long-term adaptability.
- Increase operational efficiency and effectiveness.
- Improve clarity, access, and ease of use.
Milestones
April 2025 - The Library released a Space Usage Feasibility Study (PDF, 2.06 MB, 39 pages) conducted by Bostwick Design Partnership. The study provided recommendations to ensure our facilities meet current and future community needs. We appreciate the thoughtful input from community stakeholders, residents, and staff who participated through surveys and listening sessions.
May 2025 - Voters approved a 1mill, 20-year bond issue, generating $160 million dedicated exclusively to capital improvements at all 19 ASCPL locations. These funds cannot be used for operating expenses such as staffing, materials, or programs. They are restricted to building and infrastructure needs.
September 2025 - The Library Board of Trustees approved a system-wide design contract with Bostwick Design Partnership.
Main Library Renovation
Main Library’s size and complexity require a longer design and construction timeline. Design work began in the fall of 2026 and is planned to be complete in the fall of 2027. Renovations are planned to begin in the fall of 2027 and to be complete in the fall of 2029. Construction work will be phased to maintain as much public access as possible.
Branch Library Renovations
Renovations will occur in phases, with no more than three branch libraries will be closed at any given time, to minimize disruption. The timeline is subject to change.
| Phases | Branch Location | Year Built / Renovated | Projected Closure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Tallmadge | 2000 | March 16, 2026 - Summer 2027 |
| Ellet | 1999 | May 9, 2026 – Summer 2027 | |
| Nordonia Hills | 1999 | August 1, 2026 – Summer 2027 | |
| Springfield-Lakemore | N/A | N/A – moving into stand-alone building | |
| Phase 2 | Portage Lakes | 1990 | TBD |
| Goodyear | 1999 | TBD | |
| Mogadore | 1999 | TBD | |
| Phase 3 | Norton | 1988 | TBD |
| Green | 1999 | TBD | |
| Odom | 1999 | TBD | |
| Phase 4 | Maple Valley | 2001 | TBD |
| Richfield | 2001 | TBD | |
| Northwest Akron | 2002 | TBD | |
| Phase 5 | Fairlawn Bath | 2004 | TBD |
| Firestone Park | 2004 | TBD | |
| North Hill | 2004 | TBD | |
| Phase 6 | Highland Square | 2007 | TBD |
| Kenmore | 2008 | TBD |
