Renew and inspire capital campaign and building project

Phase 2 Update

The River Falls Public Library renovation project has now entered Phase Two. This phase will complete construction on the south and east sides of the main level and will incorporate upgraded, in-wall technology throughout the space to better support public meetings, programs, and hybrid in-person/virtual use. Highlights include:

• Lobby updates: The lobby flooring will be replaced with the same ceramic tile used in the newly created First National Bank Community Cup Coffee Station. New paint will further refresh the space.
• Public restrooms: The public restrooms will be redesigned to include a third single-use restroom for families and caretaker-dependent individuals. All three restrooms will feature updated tile, paint, and fixtures.
• Main level meeting room: A new movable wall will allow the meeting room to be divided into two spaces. The carpet will be replaced with a cushioned floor designed for safety when the room is used annually as the Big Fun Lab indoor play space from January through March. Fresh paint will match the Library’s neutral areas.
• Technology storage room: Past the lobby, a new technology storage room with a viewing window is being added so the public can see what items are available for checkout.
• Telehealth room: A new Telehealth Room will allow users to connect with medical professionals via video conferencing in a quiet, private space located just inside the main library entrance.
• Children’s and teen spaces: A reimagined children’s area and a dedicated teen space will serve as a fun and inspiring focal point of Phase Two. In the children’s area, a soft neutral color palette will be complemented by green circular elements (mimicking trees) above existing pillars and blue triangular floating ceiling tiles (mimicking birds) in the vaulted ceiling. Separated by partial glass walls, the teen area will feel distinct and welcoming, featuring a darker blue accent wall and comfortable furniture that supports quiet reading, collaboration, and group projects.
• Youth Services office: The Youth Services Librarian’s office will now be located directly behind the main youth services desk.
• Comfort Room: Between the Youth Services Librarian’s office and the family restroom, a new private space called the Comfort Room has been added. This room will support children who need a break from a busy or overstimulating environment and provide a private space for lactating mothers to breastfeed or pump.
• Family restroom updates: The existing family restroom will be slightly expanded to meet current ADA requirements and receive new tile, paint, and fixtures.
• Expanded board room: The current board room is being expanded by removing a wall and combining it with the former Youth Librarian’s office. The larger space will better support collaborative meetings and provide more accessible storage.
• Additional conference room: Past the youth area, board room, and study rooms, a new smaller conference room is being added along the south wall. Slightly larger than the small conference room added in Phase One, this room will be fully equipped with technology for in-person or virtual meetings.

We look forward to unveiling Phase Two in March or April and welcoming the community into these refreshed spaces. After Phase Two is completed, Phase Three will commence with a renovation of the lower level.

Floorplan

Click here for a PDF of the final May 2025 floor plan file

About the project

• A New Chapter
• Needs Analysis
• Community Fundraising Potential
• Grant Award
• Baker Street Consulting Group Contract

News and updates

• Press Release – Gov. Evers Announces $115 Million in Grants to 35 Local and Tribal Communities for New Construction and Renovations of Public Libraries and Community Centers
• Pierce County Journal – River Falls Public Library receives $4.08 million in grant funding for upgrades

• Building update: November 8, 2024