New Main Library Set to Open in 2020

Published: 02/26/2018

New Main Library - 2020

The new Main Library, due to open in 2020, will be located at 3911 University Avenue and will face Mission Inn Avenue. The Main Library will be a two-story, approximately 42,000 square-foot building that will be elevated by a 30-foot pedestal to create an outdoor arcade and pedestrian walkway. The outdoor plaza is designed for ground-floor activity such as: farmers markets, author signings, youth performances, concerts, and family festivals. The ground floor is further activated by a community room accessible during and after library hours and a prominent Friends of the Library bookstore. The first floor will house an innovation space with 3D printers, a recording booth and other emerging technologies, the Children’s Library with a storytime area, and a marketplace area with new books, DVDs, and other popular items for checkout. There will be an outdoor terrace connected to the Library that can be used during and after library hours with spectacular views of Mount Rubidoux.

On the second floor there will be group study rooms and books for adults. Innovations, such as stationary bikes with desks where customers sit and pedal to charge their devices, lending libraries of toys and tools, and work space for a business incubator are all being considered. All areas of the Library are being designed to offer maximum flexibility so the spaces can easily be changed as needed in the future.

Stay tuned for updates on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and RiversideCA.gov/library.

Read more from the latest Explore Magazine HERE.

Previous media release: City of Riverside Plans to Open New Main Library in 2020 Following Approval