Designed by Group 4 Architecture + Champlin Architecture, the Downtown Main Library renovation injects the cultural and geographic landscapes of Cincinnati and Hamilton County into the existing mid-century modern buildings.  At 540,000 square feet, this facility is the Library's flagship location, accounting for about half of the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library's public space.  The $30 million renovation will include:

• The plaza walls will be removed and the plaza will be lowered to street level to create a safer and more welcoming Vine St. entrance.
• Portions of the interior of the library will receive a light renovation.
• A new, at-grade plaza and large glass curtain wall will welcome library users to the revitalized atrium. The design will express the wonderful range of library spaces within. Upon entering the atrium, an inviting and warm social stair will knit together the Walnut Street and Vine Street entrances while providing a range of seating opportunities for individuals, small groups, and large events. Inspired by the hills of Cincinnati, this welcoming design provides new amenities and gathering spaces, as well as an intuitive connection to the upper floors of the library, accessed through a new stair extending from the second floor upwards.