In November 2017, Denver voters overwhelmingly approved measure 2E, which provides $69.3 million to renovate the Denver Central Library and 10 branch libraries as part of the Elevate Denver Bond program.
Here you’ll find basic information on the library’s 11 bond-related projects as well as updates on construction and temporary closures. You can also visit the City’s Elevate Denver website for additional information about all Denver projects.
The first debt issuance for Elevate Denver bonds allows the library to begin four of 11 scheduled projects. Each project has a design team, which includes representatives from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure selected architects and library staff.
Project Overview
Denver Central Library
Central Library has fully reopened on November 3, 2024! Thank you to everyone who joined us at Central Library’s Grand Reopening Celebration! It was an amazing turnout and your presence made this milestone all the more special as we unveiled the newly renovated spaces designed to inspire, connect, and serve our community. The day was a testament to the vibrant energy and support that make the Denver Public Library such a meaningful place for all.
The Central Library’s hours of operation will be Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Monday - Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Library locations and hours are available at denverlibrary.org/locations.
Read more about the celebration here.
Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library
The Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library is now open to the public. The 20th anniversary of the branch had it’s celebration and the grand reopening on Aug. 12, 2023. The celebration included a ribbon cutting ceremony, entertainment and programming on every floor of the library to welcome the community in to the new space.
Athmar Park Branch Library
The Athmar Park Branch Library renovation and construction are progressing well. Renovations will include building additions such as new study rooms and meeting spaces, increasing their square footage. The branch will also receive cosmetic refreshes such as new interior furniture, carpeting, and paint. There will also be improvements to the buildings’ infrastructure including the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, Information Technology systems, and more.
Pauline-Robinson Branch Library
The newly renovated Pauline Robinson branch is now open! A Grand Reopening Celebration with the community took place March 1, 2025.
For location and hours click here.
Ross-Barnum Branch Library
The Ross-Barnum Branch Library temporarily closed for public service beginning Sunday, Aug. 18 for renovations. When the location reopens, customers will enjoy updated interiors with new finishes, furniture, and technology, along with improved lighting and infrastructure. A new elevator, enhanced accessibility, and better safety features, including upgraded HVAC and surveillance systems, will also be introduced. For the first time, the basement will be open for public use, offering a new community room and study rooms.
Ross-Broadway Branch Library
Ross-Braoadway Branch Library is currently moving through the design development phase with plans to include an addition.
View the Spring 2025 renovation one-pager update here.
Schlessman Family Branch Library
The branch has been temporarily closed since Jan. 20, 2025. Renovation construction will begin as the branch receives a partial renovation and addition. Learn more here.
Carnegie Libraries
The renovations for these over century-year-old Carnegie libraries are complete. Because both of these buildings have similar architectural opportunities and challenges, we tackled their updates together. The library hosted community meetings in the summer of 2019 to gather input from customers and neighbors. Connecting with Denver residents and library users is essential in planning all of our renovations.
John “Thunderbird Man” Emhoolah Jr. Branch Library
John “Thunderbird Man” Emhoolah Jr. Branch Library renovation created a much needed community space for meeting, learning and making. The branch now has an amazing contemporary teen space as there was a need for experiential space to keep youth engaged and learning while not in school or work. Adaptations were created to make the branch accessible to all residents. Lastly, aspects of the branch was repaired and restored to maintain and protect this treasured 100-year Carnegie library most notable, being the stairwell entrance dating back to 1918.
Smiley Branch Library
Smiley’s renovations include upgraded spaces such as an updated community room and a new study room in the basement. Reflecting its Northwest Denver neighborhood’s aesthetic, Smiley features a number of great architectural details, such as exposed brick in the front entrance and study room as well as refinished original built-in wood shelving. The Smiley branch also has a new, more easily accessible exterior book drop.
Elevate Denver Bond Renovations
Athmar Park Branch Library
Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library
John “Thunderbird Man” Emhoolah Jr. Branch Library
Denver Central Library
Eugene Field Branch Library
Pauline Robinson Branch Library
Ross-Barnum Branch Library
Ross-Broadway Branch Library
Ross-University Hills Branch Library
Smiley Branch Library
Schlessman Family Branch Library
Resources:
Activate! Denver Facilities Master Plan
Contracting opportunities
Elevate Denver Bond website
Media contact