Now Open! Explore Your Renovated Mt. Washington Branch!

Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library

After undergoing renovations, the Mt. Washington Branch (2049 Beechmont Ave.) reopened to the public on Saturday, Feb. 14. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Branch Manager Paul Burch said that having their grand re-opening on Valentine’s Day was perfect.

“When I think of the relationship that our Library has with the Mt. Washington community, ‘love’ is the first word that comes to mind,” said Paul. “We feel that love from you all in our interactions every day. I have worked in many other places in my life, and I have never experienced the bond that I have felt with the people here.”

Customer Marilyn Krebbs cozied up by the fireplace as she waited for the reading from local poet Mike Henson. A poet herself, Marilyn said she came to the reopening to represent her church's writing group. She also spoke to her fondness for Mt. Washington Branch's staff, citing their continued helpfulness, even when the branch was housed in its temporary location.

"You really get to know them as friends. It's more than the building, it's the employees," said Marilyn.

During his speech, Paul pointed to several of the branch’s new features, including the much-requested meeting room and MakerSpace. Customers explored the MakerSpace throughout the day, including Rosa Christophel. Rosa is a mother to an 8-year-old girl, and both love coming to the Library. Rosa called out the meeting space, saying it it much needed in the community.

"[The Library] is one of the few places left in our culture where you can go somewhere for free and gather and not just spend money," said Rosa. "Growing up and going to the Library, it's a relief, in a way."

Ummesh, another Library Customer, held a similar sentiment, saying that the renovation brought "more light" into the building. "It's a community center. It's a place where all of us can come together and get to meet not just our neighbors, but others in the community," said Ummesh, who sat by his son in the kid's space. "Books have always been sent out to me and my son. This is like a manifestation of the things we consider important."

Eva Jane Romaine Coombe Director Paula Brehm-Heeger thanked the Library’s Board of Trustees, local elected officials, and other community partners for joining the celebration, including Congressman Greg Landsman, Ohio State Senator Catherine Ingram, and Ohio Representative Ashley Bryant Bailey.

“We’re grateful for the support of our Board of Trustees, our local elected officials, and the many community partners and neighbors here today,” said Paula. “Thank you for helping Mt. Washington thrive.”

New Features

New paint and flooring
New furniture and shelving
Vibrant kids’ and teens’ areas
Quiet reading area with fireplace
New MakerSpace
New reservable meeting room with updated technology
Modernized mechanical and electrical systems that were 50+ years old
Refreshed staff space

During the renovations, the Mt. Washington Branch staff continued to serve its community through a temporary space.

“Adrienne, Meredith, Beth, Gabe, Kristin, Amber, Kim, Amanda, and now Jay – you are an extraordinary group of people,” said Paul. “You show great care and compassion to everyone who walks through our doors, and I am proud to be your manager. Thank you for everything.”

A family explores Mt. Washington Branch’s MakerSpace.

A parent reads to their child in the kid’s space at the Mt. Washington Branch.

The Teen Space at the Mt. Washington Branch.

The Mt. Washington Branch’s new meeting room.

The kid’s room at the Mt. Washington Branch, including a mural designed by Ashley Kroninger.

The Mt. Washington Branch’s fireplace is perfect for cozying up with a read.

CHPL Board of Trustees and local elected officials join Branch Manager Paul Burch for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Explore the Mt. Washington Branch’s History

Library service in Mt. Washington began in 1899 in Maude Clark’s dry goods store. By 1912, growing demand led to a formal deposit station. Over the next 40 years, the Library shifted from one temporary home to another.

After the post-war boom, residents rallied for a permanent facility. In 1958, that vision became reality; the building opened at 2049 Beechmont Ave., its current location, on the former site of the Mt. Washington School.

Now, the community can celebrate an addition to the Library’s history.

Explore the MakerSpace

The Mt. Washington Branch is the latest library location to have a MakerSpace! Equipment includes button makers, 3D printers, a media conversion station, computers with Adobe Creative Suite software, and a Cricut Maker 4. Learn more at CHPL.org/makerspace. Reservations for the Mt. Washington MakerSpace open on Monday, Feb. 23.

Upcoming Events

Are you eager to explore the newly renovated Mt. Washington Branch? Attend an upcoming event to do just that! From knitting clubs to storytimes to yoga nights, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendars for upcoming events!