Benning Library Construction Update
The Benning Neighborhood Library is being replaced. Construction of the new building is underway. Library services are currently being offered at an interim location two blocks east of the old building site. The architecture firm of Davis, Brody, Bond Aedas designed the new library. The new library will open in spring 2010.
View photos and site designs of Benning Library.
Check out a live Web cam of our progress!
The new two-story library will be approximately 22,000 square feet and feature a flexible design to provide inviting spaces for all.
It will include:
- 80,000 books, DVDs, CDs, and other library materials
- Children’s program room
- Separate reading areas for adults, teens and children
- 32 public access computers with free Wi-Fi Internet access
- Mobile laptop cart with 20 computers
- Comfortable seating for 200 customers
- Large program room for up to 100 people
- Two 12-person conference rooms
- Parking for 14 vehicles
- Vending area
- Public art by Ward 7 artist
Join Ginnie Cooper, the DC Public Library system’s head librarian; Peter Cook, with Davis Brody Bond Aedas; and a representative from Forrester Construction, as they lead a construction tour of the Benning Neighborhood Public Library on October 10.
Community Input
As part of the design process, the library hosted a series of Community Design Meetings to seek input from residents. The community also participated in the selection of the architectural team.
If you have any questions or comments please submit them to the following email address: BenningCommunityFeedback@dc.gov.
Notes from Past Community Meetings
Community Design Meeting, June 5, 2008
Meeting focus: Schematic design
Community Design Meeting, March 18, 2008
Meeting focus: Schematic design
Community Design Meeting, December 11, 2007
Meeting focus: Schematic design
Community Design Meeting, October 23, 2007
Meeting focus: Conceptual design
Hopes and Dreams Community Session, July 31, 2007
Meeting focus: Community’s ideas for the new library