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Future Libraries: Expansions and Improvements

After six years of planning and meeting with more than 6,500 community members, Deschutes Public Library is putting vision into action to provide outstanding library spaces and services for decades to come. A bond measure approved by Deschutes County voters will fund the design and construction of an approximately 90,000-square-foot library to serve all Deschutes County residents. Bond funds are also paying for doubling the square footage of the Redmond Library and will renovate and update existing libraries in Downtown Bend, East Bend, La Pine, Sisters, and Sunriver.

What’s happening with the Central Library at Stevens Ranch?

Bend and Deschutes County have grown exponentially over the last 20 years. The new Central Library at Stevens Ranch will allow for increased collections that can move more quickly between all libraries in the Deschutes Public Library System—from the northern reaches of the county to the south. Construction is underway, and is expected to be complete in 2026.

Central Library Construction Check Out the Building Progress

Level 1

The first level welcomes the community with a convenient place to drop off and pick up library materials as well as an area to browse the latest hot titles. Several large gathering spaces and a divisible meeting room add to the flexibility of the space. The building’s outdoor areas will offer places to gather and reflect. A small café is also under consideration.

Circle 1

Holds Pick-up
The first floor is where customers can pick up their holds and items from The Library of things.

Circle 2

Books and Materials Displays
New and best-selling books are on display for the public to browse and check out.

Circle 3

Café
A small café allows for casual meetings and impromptu interactions.

Selected Area of Proposed Level 1 Floor Plan

Proposed Level 1 Floor Plan
Circle 4

Multi-purpose Meeting Rooms
A large and divisible meeting space is available to the community.

Level 2

On the second level, children and teens have space for exploration and discovery. Young children will enjoy ample room for play and interaction, as well as spaces for quieter reading. A story time area welcomes children of varying ages, and a dedicated teen space gives middle- and high-school age kids a place of their own.

Circle 1

Children’s Discovery Spaces
Children will enjoy dynamic discovery spaces for interactive play and learning, as well as a story time area.

Circle 2

Reading Areas
Children and their caregivers have dedicated spaces to read together and explore books they may like to check out.

Circle 3

Story Time
The flexible story time area can be partitioned off or left open for larger gatherings.

Selected Area of Proposed Level 2 Floor Plan

Proposed Level 2 Floor Plan
Circle 4

Teens
Teens can meet, study, and create in a space all their own.

Circle 5

Creative/DIY Space
This hands-on area provides opportunities for creative exploration and activities.

Level 3

The third level houses the library’s collection for adults. This floor also features collaborative and co-working areas, smaller meeting rooms for public use, a creative DIY space, and a wide range of seating and study areas.

Circle 1

Collab/Co-working Area
A generous area dedicated to co-working for students and working professionals allows for collaboration and access to library materials.

Circle 2

Tutor/Meeting Rooms
Meeting rooms address the increased demand for study and tutor spaces.

Circle 3

Open Seating/Technology Access
Ample seating and access to technology is available throughout the third floor. Seating along the windows maximizes the views.

Selected Area of Proposed Level 3 Floor Plan

Proposed Level 3 Floor Plan
Circle 4

Creative/DIY Space
This hands-on area provides opportunities for creative exploration and activities.

Proposed Exterior Features

Solar panels provide energy for this net-zero building. Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations will be available in the parking lot. A drive-up window creates convenience for library customers to pick up and drop off materials.

Solar Panels
The library is committed to meeting its net-zero goals by maximizing the use of solar panels over a portion of the civic patio and on the building’s rooftop. EV-charging stations will also be located in the park area, as will additional solar panels. The Central Library at Stevens Ranch is being built to meet LEED Gold standards and will be all electric.

Drive-up Window
Customers and pick-up materials at the convenient drive-up window when the library is open; they can also drop off materials through the library’s after-hours book return.

Multi-use Patio Areas
There is ample space for the public to sit, gather, and explore around the building’s perimeter. Many spaces take advantage of the region’s expansive views.

Rendering of the Proposed Exterior

Exterior Rendering

Page Last Modified Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Future Libraries

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