Denver’s Central Library is undergoing significant changes following its reopening after a prolonged closure for renovations. The library is extending its hours to seven days a week, addressing security concerns, and adding new amenities to better serve the community. The upgraded library features new facilities such as bathrooms, phones, elevators, community rooms, studios, and study areas.
Central Library Director Rachel Fewell emphasized the importance of accommodating the community’s needs, with a focus on public WiFi, phones, computers, and study areas being the most utilized services since reopening. The library is also planning to extend its hours later this year, following more building upgrades to sustain longer operating hours.
Increased security measures are also being implemented to ensure patron safety and enforce a ban on illicit activities. Enhanced security measures include hourly bathroom checks, library walkthroughs, and compliance checks. Plans for construction and improvements at the library had been in the works since 2017, with funding from the Elevate Denver bond.
Denver City Councilmember Chris Hinds expressed excitement about the library’s reopening and emphasized the importance of keeping downtown areas open and accessible to the public. With the addition of more hours and enhanced security, Fewell hopes that the library can continue to welcome and serve the community effectively.
