Now Open! Explore the Renovated Oakley Branch!  

Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library 

The Oakley Branch reopened to the public on Saturday, Dec. 20, after a $1.5 million renovation. Over 650 community members celebrated the branch’s unveiling. We can’t wait to welcome more into the refreshed space!  

During the opening celebration, Paula Brehm-Heeger, the Library’s Eva Jane Romaine Coombe Director and Oakley Branch Manager Edith Gillispie addressed the crowd. 

“Thank you to the Oakley community. Your feedback, ideas, and enthusiasm were essential for shaping this space,” said Paula Brehm-Heeger, Eva Jane Romaine Coombe Director, during the celebration. “Your input ensured that the branch reflects the values, needs, and dreams of the people it serves.” 

 “Personally, I have worked at the Library for over 34 years and it has always been more than just buildings with books. It is a place where people can connect, learn, and belong,” said Edith. “Today, as we reopen these doors, we are recommitting to that purpose in our Oakley community.” 

Customers explored the branch while enjoying warm drinks, snacks, arts and crafts, face painting, and more. Santa even dropped by for a visit!   

“This branch is cozy and close! It feels like it’s tucked into the center of our community,” said Lindsay, a Library customer. “It looks wonderful!” 

New Features 

With feedback from the Oakley community in mind, upgrades to the branch include:  

• Updated meeting room  
• An expanded kids' area  
• Dedicated teen area  
• New furniture and finishes  
• New mechanical and electrical systems that replace end-of-lifecycle equipment  
• Customers can look forward to new, upgraded holds lockers in 2026!  

Your Oakley Branch renovation was guided by CHPL's Facility Master Plan, which outlines improvements to your 41 library locations with input from more than 3,000 community members to create more welcoming, accessible spaces. 

Explore the Oakley Branch’s History  

To celebrate the renovation, the Oakley Branch currently has a history display exploring its roots, which dates back to 1910. First a deposit station, a full-service branch later opened in 1926 in a rented building near the 20th Century Theater.  

By 1940, a permanent branch library opened at the corner of Gilmore and Madison Road. This space served the community through 1986. Architect Bernard Fields designed a new 7,100 square foot facility on the same site. The building opened in May of 1989 with features like skylights and cathedral windows, which remain intact today.  

Upcoming Events  

Are you excited to get back into the Oakley Branch? Now that the branch has reopened, staff can once again host events! From storytimes to crafts, there will be something for everyone. Mark your calendars for upcoming events — and explore Oakley’s refreshed space while you’re at it.