Building Our Future

Investing in Strong Libraries for a Strong Community

For more than 150 years, the Akron-Summit County Public Library has been a cornerstone of our community—providing resources, programs, and welcoming spaces for all residents. Thanks to strong local support, including a property tax levy that has funded nearly half of our operating budget since 1984, we’ve been able to deliver high-quality library services for generations.

Today, our 19 library buildings are aging. On average, they are 24 years old, and many require significant repairs and updates to continue serving the community effectively. Between 2022 and 2024, the Library invested more than $6.13 million in maintenance and repairs, but the need far exceeds what our operating budget can support.

This page provides updates on our long-term capital improvement plan, funded by the 1mill, 20-year bond issue approved by voters in May 2025. These funds—restricted solely for building and infrastructure needs—will allow us to modernize every ASCPL location and ensure our libraries remain vibrant, accessible, and functional for many years to come.

Why This Work Matters

To ensure our libraries remain safe, accessible, and equipped for the future, we have embarked on a system-wide capital improvement plan.

• Buildings are aging and require major repairs to continue operating safely and efficiently.
• Community needs have evolved, and our spaces must adapt to support emerging technology, collaboration, accessibility, and modern library services.
• Capital funding is limited—Ohio public libraries do not receive dedicated state funding for facilities, and the last time ASCPL sought capital support from voters was in 1997.

The improvements funded through this plan will allow every ASCPL location to better serve residents for decades to come.

How We’re Moving Forward

Space Usage Feasibility Study

April 2025 The Library released a Space Usage Feasibility Study conducted by Bostwick Design Group. The study provided recommendations to ensure our facilities meet current and future community needs. We appreciate the thoughtful input from staff across the system. The Library is also grateful to the many residents and community stakeholders who participated through surveys and listening sessions.

Bond Issue Approved

May 2025 Voters approved a 1mill, 20-year bond issue, generating $160 million dedicated exclusively to capital improvements at all 19 ASCPL locations. These funds cannot be used for operating expenses such as staffing, materials, or programs. They are restricted to building and infrastructure needs.

A New Springfield-Lakemore Branch

June 2025 The Library purchased a standalone building for the Springfield-Lakemore Branch, enabling us to offer the same capacity of service available at our other branches.

Design and Construction Partnerships

September 2025 The Library Board of Trustees approved a system-wide design contract with Bostwick Design Partnership.

October 2025 The Board approved Independence Construction to serve as Construction Manager at Risk for Main Library, Ellet Branch, Nordonia Hills Branch, and Tallmadge Branch.

Main Library Renovation

Main Library’s size and complexity require a longer design and construction timeline.

• Design work is beginning soon.
• Work will be phased to maintain as much public access as possible.

Branch Library Renovations

Renovations across the 18 branch locations will occur in phases to minimize service disruptions. Each phase will include three branches, except Springfield‑Lakemore, which will follow its own schedule due to its relocation into a newly purchased building.

Branches will close during renovations. However, the Library will continue serving affected communities through bookmobile services and off-site programs.

The first branches scheduled for interior renovations—Ellet, Nordonia Hills, and Tallmadge—were prioritized due to the poor condition of their roofs.

Branch Renovations Timeline

The branch renovations timeline was developed based on location and the date of construction or last renovation. The timeline is subject to change.

Staying Connected

As planning and construction progress, we will continue to share updates, timelines, and project details. Our goal is to keep the community informed every step of the way.