Hyde Park Branch Moving to Temporary Location During Renovation

Written by Joe Armstrong, Content Specialist, Marketing, Downtown Main Library

Starting September 30, the Hyde Park Branch is receiving its first major renovation since 1970 as part of CHPL’s Facilities Master Plan, opens a new window, funded by the 1 mill levy that was passed in May 2018.

The existing building will be closed to the public beginning September 30. A temporary location will October 6 in Hyde Park Plaza, 3764 Paxton Ave., until construction is complete in mid 2023.

Find the latest updates on the Hyde Park Branch Accessible Capital Improvement Project, opens a new window and the CHPL Facility Master Plan on our website.

Details of the Branch Renovation

After more than 50 years since its last update, major accessibility and layout improvements are coming to the building built in 1912.

Both building entrances will be upgraded to flat areas (at grade) without steps. A brand-new, large elevator is another key update that will improve the library experience for customers with mobility challenges. Other features coming to the branch, requested by customers, include:

• Improved and expanded rear parking lot
• Flat, stair-less rear entrance, removing the long, narrow existing ramp
• Larger, updated elevator centrally located in the building
• New, fully-accessible restrooms
• Inviting front entrance with open views to both floors
• New flooring, paint, and updated furniture
• Increased natural light inside the branch
• Updated, sustainable fish tank

While many new changes are coming to the branch, we are keeping many aspects of the building the same based on customer feedback. The location of the branch will remain at 2747 Erie Ave. Much of the hand-painted mural by Michael Scott will be preserved as well. The popular quiet area will remain on the upper level of the building. The branch hours, staffing levels, and services will remain the same.

Visit Hyde Park’s Temporary Location in Hyde Park Plaza

Beginning September 30, the existing building at 2747 Erie Ave. will be closed to the public. On October 6 the temporary location at 3764 Paxton Ave., near Kroger and next to Great Clips in the Hyde Park Plaza shopping center, will open for customers.

Hours will remain the same at the temporary location and all services currently offered, such as free printing, computers, and Wifi, will be available. The branch’s popular Outdoor Storytimes @ The Cincinnati Observatory, opens a new window will continue, with more in-branch events coming soon.

Holds available for customer pickup between September 30 and the first week in October will remain on hold and be available when the branch reopens in its temporary location. A book and materials return will be installed outside the temporary location for customers to return their materials at any time.

"The renovation of our historic location on Erie Avenue is incredibly exciting. We're so thankful for our customers’ love for our branch and their feedback on the improvements to come. During construction, we’re excited to continue providing our important services and materials to the neighborhood from our temporary location just one mile away," Ben Lathrop, Hyde Park Branch Manager.

Share Your Feedback

We are still seeking feedback from customers on both the renovation of the Hyde Park Branch and the temporary location.

Share your thoughts on the following topics using the feedback form below:

• What opportunities and features would you like to be included in the branch’s new play area?
• What kinds of events and programming would you like to see at the new, planned community room?
• What additional services should be offered at the temporary location?
• How would you like the new aquatic feature at the Hyde Park Branch to look?