The City of Lincoln (liba.org) has chosen the Centrum building at 11th and O Streets as the site for its new downtown library, replacing the aging Bennett Martin Public Library.
The city plans to purchase and renovate the former downtown mall, currently owned by Southeast Community College, for $46 million—a significantly more cost-effective solution than previous proposals.
The new 65,000-square-foot library will feature interactive children’s and teen spaces, makerspaces, a rooftop auditorium and terrace, coffee shop, and expanded meeting and study areas. An additional 15,000 square feet may be leased to educational or cultural partners.
Funding will come from $18 million in private donations, $23 million in municipal bonds, and a $5.2 million interfund loan, with no tax increase planned.
Pending City Council approval, work is expected to begin in 2026, with a grand opening targeted for 2028.
For more information go to liba.org