The modern library is no longer just a building stuffed with books — it’s a neighborhood focal point and confluence of curious minds, where all ages can access resources to enrich their lives and develop deeper relationships with their community. It’s a safe space designed by the people, for the people.

At Holgate Library, this all checks out.

Multnomah County’s first new, permanent library since 2010 opens to the public Saturday, July 13 at the site of the original building on Southeast Holgate Boulevard and 79th Avenue. Work to replace the old library began in 2022 as part of a voter-approved capital bond to expand and improve the Multnomah County Library system.

At 21,000 sqft, the new, two-story, mass timber structure is triple the size of its single-story predecessor, making it one of the county’s largest libraries — and its most energy efficient. Leaders worked to include the community throughout the planning and development process, incorporating public feedback from top to bottom. Visitors will find updated technology such as self checkout stations and audio/visual assisted spaces, a nature-themed children’s area, and seven meeting rooms (including a maker’s classroom).

Teen space

A 570-sqft room on the second floor was designed with the help of Your Street Your Voice and is the first dedicated teen space in the Multnomah County Library network. Guided by teen input, the space includes a large TV and Nintendo Switch games, beanbag chairs, study areas, and access to technology like vlogging kits that are available for check out.

Inclusive art

From the flowing lines etched into Holgate Library’s facade by muralist Salomée Souag to the tableau of colorful, translucent discs screening the stairway in the lobby, artistic elements exist everywhere you look. Just outside the library’s north entrance, a small structure bears a wraparound mosaic compoased of 1,500+ tiles made by the community and stitched together by arts activist Crystal Meneses.

A ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday will kick off three days of community events featuring cultural performances.