Yesterday, Richland Library unveiled the newest + last (for now) branch to join their growing list of libraries across the Midlands – Richland Library Edgewood (2101 Oak St., site of a former Dollar General off Elmwood Ave.). It’s been years in the making as Richland Library, residents + partners (like the Columbia Housing Authority) have been trying to find ways to bring enhanced services to the Edgewood community.

The 7,000-sqft. building will be Richland Library’s 12th branch in Richland County, ft. a full library collection, computer access, meeting spaces, a Children’s Room + an outdoor patio. Design plans are publically viewable at Cecil Tillis Center (2111 Simpkins Ln.) through Oct. 27. A groundbreaking ceremony is still TBD.

🏗️ Renovation stages of all other 11 branches, funded by a $59 million bond referendum approved by Richland County voters in 2013:

Southeast | Construction expected to start Fall 2017

Northeast | Expected to reopen Summer 2018

Wheatley | Expected to reopen Spring 2018

St. Andrews | Expected to reopen November 2017

Main | Reopened third level March 2016; reopened second level September 2016; reopened first level May 2017; garden level expected to reopen December 2017

Ballentine | Opened June 2017

Sandhills | Opened February 2017

Cooper | Reopened July 2017

Blythewood | Reopened June 2017

North Main | Reopened September 2016

Eastover | Reopened April 2013

See updates at buildingyourlibrary.com.

2 min read / COLAtoday