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The Kaufman Plaza at the Main Library has announced an opening date, and you’re invited
The ongoing renovation will transform the east side of the library into an open and inviting community centerpiece.
The plaza will offer a better connection to the Topiary Park, flexible space for library programs and community events, shaded seating, and more. The Main Library underwent a major transformation back in 2016.
A large part of that project was the purchase of the space (a former parking lot) just east of the Library. The southern side of the plaza was designed as an outdoor reading space. The transformed space will open to all on Friday, July 15 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a special event.
The grand opening will give visitors a chance to explore this new space and enjoy food trucks, music, beer sales from Land Grant, trivia, karaoke, prizes, and more.
The Main Library was constructed from 1903 to 1906. Most of the funds for this gorgeous building were donated by Andrew Carnegie. When Carnegie agreed to donate $150,000 for the library, he had a condition that required the city to fund the library for at least $20,000 a year.
Even in the early 20th century, construction budgets had a way of going over, so an additional $50,000 was donated by Carnegie for the project. The library was dedicated on April 4, 1907, and it’s been an iconic institution in Columbus ever since.
Over the course of the last century, the Main Library has undergone four major renovations and expansions, in the 1950s, 1961, 1990-91, and in 2015-2016.
The Main Library will remain open during construction, including the east entrance. For more info about Columbus Metropolitan Library, please visit columbuslibrary.org.
