Grants Pass library branch
The selected concept design for the new library in Grants Pass.
After extensive community outreach and years of planning, library leaders have unanimously selected a single-story, 22,000-square-foot design that will anchor a new community hub in River City Square between Sixth and Seventh and J and K streets.
The library foundation hosted a series of eight community listening sessions with ZCS Engineering & Architecture and surveyed participants. More than 60% of survey respondents favored "Concept A," a modern, one-story design featuring a secure outdoor courtyard, expanded spaces for children and teens, meeting rooms, and potential for future expansion.
While the library leaders are committed to completing the project as quickly as possible, the current plan will allow for a phased approach. The project is estimated to cost $26 million, including soft costs, and will be rolled out in phases to ensure continued access to services while fundraising and construction progress.
To date, the library foundation has secured significant financial support, including a $425,000 grant from the State of Oregon’s Cultural Resource Economic Fund and a $500,000 anonymous donation through the Oregon Community Foundation for pre-construction work. These funds will allow the project to move into the design development and site preparation phases.
Thanks to many generous donors, grant funders, and the success of the Next Chapters Crowdfund in the spring of 2023, the foundation purchased property in downtown Grants Pass — the site of the future Grants Pass library branch, located between 6th and 7th Streets and J and K Streets.
The new library will be a community center that will help revitalize that section of downtown, expanding its reach to the Rogue River. It will be a place where all can come together to learn, work, and play — including space where local organizations and groups can meet and connect.