Now Open: Explore the Newly Renovated Cheviot Branch Library!

Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library

The Cheviot Branch Library reopened to the public on Saturday, May 10, after an eight-month, $4.95 million renovation process. Over 500 community members celebrated its grand reopening. We can’t wait for more to explore the refreshed space! 

The renovation kept the building’s original 1960s Mid-cCentury Modern exterior, complete with a wood-paneled vaulted ceiling, while adding innovative next generation Library services.

“I am so excited to share our Next Generation Library with the Cheviot community,” Taylor Souders, branch manager, said at the ribbon cutting. “To start, I would like to thank the Cheviot staff for their contributions, time, and hard work to prepare for today’s reopening. I am honored to work with an amazing team, many of whom are residents of our beautiful neighborhood.” 

New Features  

What’s new? We’re glad you asked! With feedback from the Cheviot community in mind, added features include:  

• A new accessible entry from the parking lot  
• An elevator with access to all levels  
• A meeting room on the main level  
• An expanded kids' area  
• An adult reading area  
• Upgraded shelving and furniture  

Other cozy touches include a fireplace, booth-style seating, cool displays, a sheep-dotted mural, and plenty of natural light. In true Cheviot style, a sheep statue outside of the branch greets customers as they enter.  

Library Customer Advisor Tiffany Drake has worked at the Cheviot Branch Library for over seven years. Tiffany said kids have been walking by and excitedly asking when the branch would reopen.  

“My favorite part of the renovation is the shelving! It is easily accessible to little people and elderly people. They don’t have to reach too high,” Tiffany said. “And then the mobility! You can move the shelves whenever you need. I really enjoy our new space! It’s lighter. It’s brighter. I love the elevator.”  

Another detail Tiffany called out are the carrot-shaped chairs near the young adult section. “I want to pick one up and take it home with me,” she laughed. “It gives the teens somewhere to sit. They’re not so secluded that you can’t see them, but it gives them a little quiet space.” 

Library customers also shared their love for the space. Monica, a customer with grandkids, said that her favorite part is the children’s area. “I missed my Cheviot Branch,” Monica said. “I love it here.” 

Others cited the upstairs bathroom, new seating, its openness, and book selection as their favorite parts of the renovated branch.  

“There are places where you can read, places where you can sit, where little kids can play. It’s really good,” said Library Customer Youssef. 

Explore the Cheviot Branch’s History 

The Cheviot Branch Library’s roots date back to 1919, when it served Cincinnatians as a deposit station. After several moves, the branch opened in its current building in 1962. Designed by architects Cellarius & Hilmer, the renovations maintained the space’s Mid-Century Modern charm.   

Read more at chpl.org/cheviot-branch-history. The Cheviot Branch Library currently has a display exploring its history! Make sure to check it out.  

Upcoming Events 

The Cheviot Branch has events for all ages to look forward to! Unwind to music by the fireplace at10 a.m. on Record Fridays. On Thursdays at 10:30 a.m., head to the Library for Family Storytime. And the branch opened just in time to celebrate Summer Reading! Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 31, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. for the branch’s Summer Reading Kickoff event. 

View more upcoming events!

What are you looking forward to exploring first at the renovated Cheviot Branch Library? Let us know in the comments below!