Renovations

The Main Library of the Lynchburg Public Library is preparing for a long-anticipated renovation that will modernize the building and create an inspiring, welcoming destination for readers, learners, and families across our community.

Originally constructed as a Sears & Roebuck in 1959 and converted to a library in 1984, the building has served Lynchburg residents for the past 40 years. However, aging infrastructure and outdated technology make it increasingly difficult to meet the needs of today’s library users.

The newly renovated space will boast:

Improved and increased natural lighting
Vibrant, welcoming entrance
State-of-the art digital media lab
Replacement of aging plumbing and HVAC infrastructure
Modern, durable shelving and finishes
Tutoring and small group study rooms
Makerspace
Updated Community Meeting Room
Self-serve coffee bar
Staff space designed for efficiency

It will still include:

Book Sale room
Youth and Adult collections
Teen Room and collection
Business Center
MLK educational display
Self-checkout stations

The renovated Main Library will reflect what a 21st-century library is meant to be: a vibrant hub for all citizens dedicated to lifelong learning and community connection.

Renovation work will begin in late 2025/early 2026 and is expected to continue into 2027.

Please note: Construction timelines are subject to change. Updates will be provided regularly to keep our community informed.

Milestone	Timeline	Details
Construction Bid Process	Fall 2025	Selection of contractor and finalization of construction contracts.
Transition into Storage	Fall 2025	Collections and equipment will be moved in phases. Services at the Main Library will continue during this transition, though some programs may be paused.
Construction Begins	Winter 2025/2026	Full-scale renovation work begins on the Main Library.
Alternate Hubs Open	Winter 2026	Temporary library hubs will open.
Continuation of Services at Hubs	2026-2027	Temporary library hubs will continue to provide services during the renovation.
Installation of Furnishings	Winter 2027	New shelving, furniture, and fixtures installed throughout the building.
Re-shelving and Systems Testing	Spring 2027	Library collections are returned to the building and all technology and building systems are tested.
Library Reopens	Spring/Summer 2027	Renovated Main Library reopens to patrons with enhanced services and spaces.

To our dedicated patrons and families: we know the Main Library is an important part of your daily lives, and we appreciate your patience and support during this transformation. While the building is closed, library services will remain accessible in the following ways:

Downtown Branch – 216 12th Street. Patrons should visit the Downtown Branch for any of their Business Center needs, including printing, scanning, and faxing.
Miller Center – Third Floor (Tentatively Beginning January 2026) – 301 Grove Street. This site will serve as a staffed Adult Services library hub. Patrons will be able to consult with librarians, pick up holds for adults, access newspapers and magazines, check out materials from the adult collection, and attend adult programs.
Miller Center – Ground Floor (Tentatively Starting January 2026) – 301 Grove Street. Serving as the Youth Services library hub, patrons can expect a dedicated staffed service desk with reference assistance and reader’s advisory, access to youth collection, pick up youth holds, and youth programming.
Parks and Recreation Neighborhood Centers – Library programs and services will be offered at neighborhood centers, with more details coming soon.
Online Access – Digital books, audiobooks, and more can be borrowed anytime through the Lynchburg Public Library App, Libby, Hoopla, Kanopy, and Magzter. See a complete list of our digital resources.
Campbell and Bedford Counties - Your Lynchburg Library card can be used at any of the branches located in Campbell and Bedford Counties.
Jones Memorial Library – Services remain available through their entrance on the corner of Memorial Avenue and Lakeside Drive.
Coming Soon: Bookmobile by Friends of the Library – The Friends of LPL nonprofit organization is raising money for a bookmobile. More details on this exciting project will be announced soon.

Q. When will the Main Library close for renovation?

A. The Main Library will close in late 2025/early 2026 as collections, materials, and equipment move into storage. We will remain open as long as possible during this process, even as items are moved. Once construction begins, our staff will begin service at our temporary locations.

Q. When will the Main Library reopen?

A. Renovations are expected to be completed by Spring/Summer 2027. Please note that construction timelines are subject to change.

Q. Where can I return my books?

A. You may return library materials at the Miller Center adult and youth hubs or at the Downtown Branch (216 12th Street). A book drop will also be available at the Miller Center for added convenience. You may also use book drops at libraries in Bedford and Campbell Counties.

Q. Where can I use my library card?

A. Your Lynchburg Public Library card can be used at all temporary library hubs, online platforms (Libby, Hoopla, and the LPL App), and libraries in Bedford and Campbell Counties.

Q. Where can I go for library services while the Main Library is closed?

A. Library services will continue at the Downtown Branch and temporary library hubs at the Miller Center. Details will be available on the library’s website and social media channels.

Q. Will you still offer programs and events?

A. Yes, library programming will continue during the renovation at the Miller Center, the Downtown Branch, and at community events. Programming information is available on the library calendar. View the library calendar.

Q. How can I stay up to date?

A. Project updates, timelines, and service adjustments will be posted on the library website, shared via Lynchburg Alerts, and highlighted on the library social media channels. Additionally, the Lynchburg Public Library hopes to launch a regular newsletter in 2026. Pre-subscribe to our newsletter.

Q. Why is this renovation necessary?

A. The Main Library building was originally constructed in 1959 as a Sears & Roebuck and converted to a library in 1984. Aging infrastructure and outdated technology make it increasingly difficult to meet the needs of modern-day library patrons. The renovation will modernize the space, creating a vibrant hub for digital resources, community connection, and lifelong learning that continues to serve the needs of all citizens.

Q. Will the renovation change the size of the building?

A. No. The Main Library will remain within its current footprint. The interior will be updated and reconfigured to make better use of space.

Q. Will the library staff lose their jobs during the renovation?

A. No. Staff will continue serving patrons through temporary library hubs, community programs, and online services during the renovation.

anarchitectural rendering of the renovated Lynchburg Public Library.

anarchitectural rendering of the renovated main entryway of the Lynchburg Public Library.

anarchitectural rendering of the renovated interior Youth Services area at the Lynchburg Public Library.

A tentative floor plan of the renovated Lynchburg Public Library.