CHPL Partners with SHP to Design Multiple Library Renovations

The Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library (CHPL) is engaged in a decade-long, community-driven process to upgrade its library facilities and build a bright future for everyone living in Cincinnati and Hamilton County. The multi-year project called Building the Next Generation Library proposes improvements at all CHPL locations ranging from smaller-scale library renovation projects to brand-new branches, and just about everything in between.

As of December 2024, CHPL has completed 11 of the 15 projects identified in their 2019 Facility Master Plan with an additional 2 under construction and 2 in design.  They have also completed 10 much-needed maintenance projects. SHP was the architect for the new Forest Park Branch Library, which welcomed approximately 2,800 community members during the grand opening ceremony in September. In addition to designing the new Symmes Township Branch, SHP is proud to partner with CHPL on various library renovation initiatives since 2020 which include:

  • An adaptive-reuse renovation of the Mt. Healthy Branch Library.
  • A renovation including accessibility improvements at the Cheviot Branch Library.
  • An addition of a new exterior skylight at the Mariemont Branch Library.
  • An interior renovation at the Anderson Branch and Green Township Branch Libraries.
  • Renovation and maintenance upgrades at the Corryville Branch and Pleasant Ridge Branch Libraries.

“CHPL has been such an amazing partner and a natural fit for SHP’s collaborative design approach,” says Vice President Allison McKenzie. “The success of each and every one of these projects can be attributed to deep and meaningful community engagement as well as thorough feedback and insights from the CHPL staff.”

Learn more about each of our recent library renovation projects with CHPL below.

Mt. Healthy Branch Library

A former CVS store was reimagined into the new Mt. Healthy Branch that reflects the needs of the community identified through engagement sessions. The adaptive reuse provides 10,000sf of space (four times more than the previous branch) to support robust community programming such as daytime and after-school children’s activities. A grand opening celebration for the new branch took place in November 2024.

Cheviot Branch Library

Currently under construction, the renovation of the Cheviot Branch reconfigures spaces within the 1960’s era library to better meet the demands of libraries today. The project includes the addition of a new stair, elevator and restrooms to address accessibility issues. The design features interior upgrades that thoughtfully address existing maintenance and service functionality issues.

The rendering is conceptual and subject to change.

Mariemont Branch Library

The addition of a new exterior skylight over the existing courtyard at the Mariemont Branch creates an enhanced, covered outdoor space for patrons. New columns and structural framing were added to support the glazed manufactured skylight system. Complete with comfortable furniture and an accessibility ramp, the three-season room expands the library’s space offerings for patrons.

Anderson and Green Township Branch Libraries

Interior renovations of two neighborhood branches: Anderson and Green Township Branches. The projects included a children’s area refresh, teen area improvements and updated meeting spaces for large and small group gatherings. The Anderson Branch now features updated finishes, furniture, graphics, and signage to create a more engaging, welcoming environment for patrons. An updated children’s section encourages play and learning with carpet and furniture that create a “town” theme. The addition of various-sized study and meeting rooms provide the community with additional spaces to work and gather.

Price Hill Branch Library Parklet

An urban parklet project at the Price Hill Branch. SHP collaborated with nationally renowned and local artist Michael Coppage to design the parklet that pairs seamlessly with the “Off To See the Wizard” sculptural installation. The parklet offers visitors a reflective journey through intersecting pathways. Members of the Price Hill community participated in two engagement sessions to inspire the design elements included in the parklet.

Corryville and Pleasant Ridge Branch Libraries

Renovations to the early 1900s era Corryville and Pleasant Ridge Branches included both interior and exterior upgrades. Interior renovations include ceiling, wall and decorative molding replacement and repair, restroom and circulation desk area renovations, as well as the addition of multiple reading rooms created within the existing space. Exterior work for both branches includes the assessment and repair of the facade, which had suffered water damage and deterioration of the foundation.

Recommended for You