
After an extended closure for renovations, the Green Lake branch of the Seattle Public Library (SPL) reopened on October 28, 2024. The historic Carnegie building was closed on February 1, 2023 to undergo a seismic retrofit in addition to other updates. Now the 20-month project is finally complete and residents of Seattle’s Green Lake neighborhood have a safer and more accessible library to enjoy.
Read on for all the details!
Here is a list of all the improvements made to the Green Lake branch:
- seismic retrofit
- installation of a modern electric HVAC system
- new accessible elevator
- new accessible restrooms
- additional significant accessibility improvements
- refurnished and modernized interior
- additional usable space for staff and patrons, including two new study rooms
The seismic retrofit was an essential component of the renovation, following a 2016 survey that identified three unreinforced SPL branch buildings as high-risk for damage and loss of life in the event of a major earthquake. The other two library branches that will receive this seismic upgrade next are the University and Columbia branches.
Now Seattle’s Green Lake branch will be able to serve as a disaster relief center in case of an earthquake. It also has air-conditioning for the first time in its existence, which means it can offer patrons relief during heat waves as well as a reprieve from wildfire smoke.
SPL’s Green Lake branch started out as a reading room in 1905. Five years later, a new and bigger version partially financed by Andrew Carnegie opened nearby. The Green Lake branch hasn’t had a major renovation since 2004. Special care was taken during this renovation to not only preserve but even uncover and highlight historical features of the building.
The project was intended to span five months but ultimately lasted almost two years. The Green Lake branch was originally scheduled to reopen in June 2023.
“While these renovations took longer to complete than originally planned, we know you will be happy with the results,” SPL shared in a statement on the library website. “Thank you for your patience as we’ve worked diligently to reopen this important neighborhood resource and historic landmark.”
You can now visit the Green Lake branch of the Seattle Public Library for all your usual library needs, including book holds, printing, and free Wi-Fi. See the hours and address below.
Green Lake Branch
Address: 7364 E. Green Lake Dr. N., Seattle, WA 98115
Hours: 10 am-6 pm on Monday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday; noon to 8 pm Tuesday & Wednesday. Closed Fridays.