Inside Lincoln’s Library of the Future
By Nathan Lake
After more than 20 years of planning, Lincoln’s vision for a grand Central Library is taking shape. Construction of this 80,000-square-foot library begins in spring 2026, with doors expected to open in spring 2028. Here’s a sneak preview of what the new Central Library will offer.
A Place for Every Generation
The new Central Library will replace the aging Bennett Martin branch, offering spaces the downtown location has lacked. The first floor, for example, is designed for discovery and connection, from the Children’s collection and storytime room to a teen makerspace equipped with 3D printers and virtual reality labs. “Development of this new library marks the official beginning of the next great story in Lincoln,” says Tiffani Childress, Executive Director, Foundation for Lincoln City Libraries. “With the flexible community meeting areas and open seating throughout, there’s going to be inviting spaces for visitors to read, collaborate, and create—whether you’re eight or eighty.”
Learning Meets Entertainment
Upstairs, the second floor is being built for exploration. Adults and teens alike can enjoy collaborative workstations, a teaching kitchen, local history archives, and media labs for podcasts and video projects. The third floor opens up to a rooftop auditorium for up to 300 guests. “We’ll have catering access for events, and we envision this space to be the next great venue for community gatherings," says Tiffani.
“We’re really reimagining what a library can be for Lincoln going forward.”
Community Hubs
One thing is clear: the Central Library will bring people together, and it’s designed to do so. There will be a coffee shop (open beyond library hours) and the Central Library will connect to a 1,057-space parking garage and downtown skywalks. “It’s going to be a cornerstone for our Downtown’s growth and a public resource for generations to come,” says Tiffani. “We can’t wait for everyone in Lincoln to enjoy it.”
Make A Contribution.
The Foundation for Lincoln City Libraries is leading the charge to fund programs and services for our libraries. If you’d like to support Lincoln’s libraries, whether it’s your favorite branch or the new Central Library, contact Tiffani Childress, Executive Director, Lincoln City Libraries at contact@foundationforlcl.org.