COLUMBUS—Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) has kicked off renovation of its Main Library’s East Plaza to create a more open and inviting community centerpiece that will offer:
- greater integration between the two portions of the existing plaza
- better connection to Topiary Park
- flexible space for library programs and community events
- improved safety and sight lines
- comfortable, shaded seating
CML completed a major renovation of its Main Library in 2016. Central to this renovation was the purchase of the space – formerly a parking lot – just east of the building that offered a long-sought-after connection to neighboring Topiary Park. As part of the Main Library renovation, CML transformed this space into a plaza. The southern side of the plaza was designed to provide outdoor reading space, while the northern side was intended to offer more functional program space. The northern side has not met expectations and is the focus of CML’s current renovation (see renderings).
CML plans to dedicate the transformed space with an event, open to all, on Friday, July 15 and will share additional details in the coming months.
Encova Insurance, whose national headquarters is located nearby, provided the Columbus Metropolitan Library Foundation a gift of $250,000 toward this project in honor of recently retired CEO Dave Kaufman.
Main Library will remain open during construction, as will its east entrance.
