Library Construction Updates

We are updating the Downtown Library to make it a safe and welcoming building for everyone in our community. We are upgrading the electrical, plumbing, and heating and cooling systems, and adding family restrooms in Youth Services. We are also making changes in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Yes! Although the first floor will be closed, the Second and Third Floors will remain open and accessible to the public.

Construction on the first floor of the Downtown Library is scheduled to begin in September 2025 and is expected to last 9–12 months. As with all construction projects, this timeline is subject to change.

Yes! We have made every effort to keep as much of the collection available for browsing as possible. Due to space limitations, some materials will not be on public shelves but will still be accessible through our hold and curbside services. For a complete list of available materials, please visit our website. 

Yes! Tree City Books has moved to its new location at 775 W. Fulton Street, just one block north of the Downtown Library. For more information, visit Friends of the Boise Public Library.

No. The Library's hours will remain the same throughout the construction period.

Absolutely! While the first floor is closed, the Children’s Area will be temporarily relocated to the Third Floor. Although the space will be smaller, it will still feature books, play areas, and opportunities for children to explore and learn.

Yes, we plan to continue to offer programming. Due to construction limitations, most programming will be located outside of the Downtown Library. We are working with our community partners to find programming spaces that are close to the Downtown Library, and we are also excited to try some new locations for programming. We encourage those of you who want to attend a Library program to check our website before attending, as we will keep that site updated if there are any changes to the programming schedule or location. In fact, it is a good idea to check our website regularly, as we hope to be able to add new programming throughout construction and will list those new programs there.

While the main elevator will be closed as part of the First Floor construction work, we have a second elevator and stairway that will be open so that all Library users can access the Second and Third Floors. The elevator is just off the entrance to the right when you walk through the first set of double doors to enter the Library. It is currently not open to the public but will be open when the First Floor is closed for renovation. There will be plenty of signage to help you easily find the elevator and stairs. We will also have signage to help you find the books, computers and services you are looking for. You can always ask one of our amazing staff members if you need help finding anything, too!  

Yes. Learning Lab is still offering classes. More information can be found on their website.

No. The universal changing table is on the first floor of the Library, and the first floor is closed to the public during the construction period.

We will regularly update this Library Construction website with the latest news, timelines, and important information. We encourage you to visit this page frequently to stay up-to-date. We will also share information through the Library’s newsletter and encourage you to sign up for the newsletter here.