Multnomah County Library Breaks Ground on Expanded St. Johns Library

Multnomah County Library is starting construction on one of its vital renovations and expansions this week. St. Johns Library will grow to approximately 8,500 square feet, preserving the original Carnegie building and adding a new addition.  

St. Johns Library is the final groundbreaking as part of  the November 2020 capital bond, making all major renovations, additions or new libraries either under construction or open.

The library has one of the smallest footprints (approximately 5,600 square feet), but with As this expansion and update, it can serve patrons even more efficiently with features that reflect the community. 

To amplify the community’s vision, Community Design Advocates were part of a paid program to connect with their communities about how this library can represent them. 

Based on additional community input through focus groups, public meetings, surveys and more, new features will include:

• A large play and learning space for children and families. 
• Flexible meeting spaces for community use.
• A teen area with space for technology, homework and creative expression.
• Updated technology and internet.
• New art that represents the community.

Draft rendering of St. Johns Library entryway courtesy of Bora Architecture and Interiors

Bora Architecture and Interiors and Convergence Architecture, a local St. Johns architecture firm, led the design for the library. Howard S. Wright is the general contractor for this $13 million project. St. Johns Library closed to begin construction processes on October 11 and is scheduled to reopen in spring 2026. 

Draft rendering of St. Johns’ kids area and community room courtesy of Bora Architecture and Interiors

During St. Johns’ construction, the library encourages patrons to visit the following locations:

Kenton Library: 8226 N Denver Avenue, Portland, OR 97217

Northwest Library: 2300 NW Thurman Street, Portland, OR 97210

Community members can stay up-to-date on the latest news about St. Johns Library and all Multnomah County Library building projects at multcolib.org/planning. 

Renderings of St. Johns Library are courtesy of Bora Architecture and Interiors and available via Dropbox.