What Do You Want to See in the New Forest Park Next Generation Library?

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

After two community listening sessions and feedback from emails, phone calls, and surveys, we've heard you loud and clear: our customers are ready for a new Next Generation Library building to serve not only Forest Park, but the surrounding neighborhoods – and we need you for the next step!

A Center for the Community

The new Forest Park Branch Library will be located at 660 Northland Blvd., just a half-mile from its current location. This new location will be adjacent to the Parkdale post office, across the street from several restaurants and businesses, and very close to the surrounding residential neighborhoods. Metro bus route 20, opens a new window stops right in front of our new location. Having a building that is accessible to all is a top priority so all our customers can enjoy their neighborhood branch library.

Watch this detailed presentation about the new location:

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 so far. Here is what’s currently planned:

• Space! The new site will have 25,000 square feet
• Up to 120 parking spaces (the current location has 50 spaces)
• Large community rooms and several small study rooms
• New technology such as MakerSpace, opens a new window equipment
• Drive-thru for convenient material pick-up and drop-off
• Outdoor areas with seating for events, including storytimes and readings

Share Your Thoughts

While we are well underway to making this dream a reality, we still want to hear from you! The design phase of this project continues through June, with groundbreaking tentatively scheduled for 2023. Use the form below to share your ideas and feedback on what you want to see at your new Forest Park Next Generation Library.

The current Forest Park Branch Library, opens a new window will remain open during this process, and we are always open to hearing your ideas during your next visit.

Learn more about the CHPL Facility Master Plan and check out videos, photos, and progress about the Forest Park Next Generation Library on our website, opens a new window.