June 30, 2025, Urbana, IL – The Urbana Free Library has announced it will undergo partial renovations to its first floor as well as the Megan’s Room play area on the ground floor. To complete the project, the Library has partnered with design firm Engberg Anderson and construction firm Barber & DeAtley, Inc. Construction will start on or around August 1 and is possible thanks to generous support from the City of Urbana, The Urbana Free Library Foundation, the Friends of The Urbana Free Library, and private donors.
In the 20 years since the Library's 2005 expansion, the Library has been well-loved, and now the aging carpet, paint, and furniture are due for replacement. The purpose of this project is to modernize both spaces to improve both the patron and staff experience.
The first-floor portion of the project includes a redesigned Welcome Desk area and updated materials processing areas. It also includes new carpet, paint, and furniture for the first floor, from the building’s Race Street doors to the start of the fiction stacks. On the ground floor, Megan’s Room will be remodeled, including an update to the levels, new carpet, and fresh paint.
To prepare for construction, the Library will be closed on July 31 and August 1. Curbside Pickup will be available on both days. Please visit the Library’s website to make an appointment. During construction, the Library will temporarily adjust its operating hours. Beginning August 2, Library operating hours will be Monday through Thursday from 10 am - 8 pm, Friday and Saturday from 10 am - 5 pm, and Sunday from 12 pm - 5 pm.
Though much of the first floor will be closed during construction, nearly all regular Library services will be available. Services paused during construction include meeting room reservations and Friends of the Library book donations. Both services will resume once construction is completed.
To stay updated on this project, residents can sign up for The Urbana Free Library’s monthly newsletter, visit the Library’s website, or follow its Facebook and Instagram pages to stay updated.
Founded in 1874, The Urbana Free Library has been serving the Urbana community for 150 years and is one of the oldest public libraries in Illinois. The Library is led by a Board of Trustees appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council.