Construction Begins on CHPL’s Newest Next Generation Library

Written by Shaun Davidson, Branch Manager, Forest Park Branch Library

Construction is underway on the new Forest Park Branch Library, estimated to be completed in 2024! When complete, it will be one of CHPL’s largest library branches with over 25,000 square feet, complete with a spacious courtyard, ample parking, and community rooms. The current Forest Park Branch Library will remain open during construction.

Visit the Forest Park Next Generation Library webpage for up-to-date information and the newest construction photos.

A Commitment to Community

The groundbreaking ceremony brought together stakeholders from across Hamilton County, including current customers of the Forest Park Branch Library, Forest Park city officials, State Representative Jessica Miranda, and Library staff and board members – culminating in a groundbreaking of what will be CHPL’s newest library location.

“This new Forest Park Branch is an excellent opportunity for the Library to expand our services to this community, who come for knowledge, learning, resources and a space for everyone to enjoy,” said Paula Brehm-Heeger, the Eva Jane Romaine Coombe Library Director. “Today’s groundbreaking marks the beginning, but we are excited to bring this new welcoming space to the community.”

“We can’t wait for the new building, which is estimated to be a $19.2 million investment and a more than 25,000-square-foot facility built from the ground up with a courtyard,” said CHPL Board President Retired Judge Nadine Allen, “We look forward to welcoming customers into this new location, where we will serve Forest Park, Springdale and the surrounding communities.”

Bigger, Better, and Built Just for You

Architecture and design firm SHP is working closely with the Library to create a vision for this Next Generation Library that incorporates the valuable community feedback we have collected. Here are new renderings of the building unveiled at the groundbreaking – note that plans are not final and may change during the project:

The new branch library is currently planned to include:

• Tons of space! The new building will be over 25,000 square feet
• Over 100 parking spaces (the current location has 50 spaces)
• Large community rooms and several small study rooms
• New technology such as MakerSpace equipment
• Drive-thru for convenient material pick-up and drop-off
• Outdoor courtyard with seating for events, including storytimes and readings

Visit the Forest Park Next Generation Library webpage for up-to-date information and the newest construction photos.