Woodlawn library patrons will be able to access services at a temporary location as their regular branch undergoes a $22 million renovation starting this fall.
The Baltimore County Public Library’s Woodlawn branch, located at 1811 Woodlawn Drive, will hold their last day for customers on Sept. 26, with the renovation project slated to begin next month.
“Offering residents a modern library experience will bring even more opportunities to learn, study, explore and build connections with neighbors,” Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier said in a statement. “This $22 million project is an investment into the Woodlawn community, delivering a 21st century facility where residents of all ages have access to the books, resources and digital equipment they need to achieve success.”
As part of the renovation project, the library will expand its footprint to 35,000 square feet by using space on the bottom floor of the building, which previously housed the county health department’s Woodlawn Health Center. The health center moved to Security Square Mall in 2021.
Renovations will include a digital media lab; recording studio; community conference room; café; areas designed specifically for adults, teens, tweens and children; quiet work and study areas; homework rooms; a youth programming area; and a refreshed Storyville play-and-learn center.
“With modern amenities and décor inspired by Historic Gwynn Oak Park, the $22 million renovation of Woodlawn Branch reflects Baltimore County Public Library’s commitment to 21st century libraries that are community hubs and connectors,” BCPL CEO Sonia Alcántara-Antoine said in a statement. “Specialized spaces for children, teens and adults, along with a café and community rooms, will make the reimagined branch Woodlawn’s destination to explore, learn, create and connect.”
Starting Oct. 6, library patrons can visit the temporary location at 6660 Security Blvd., Suite 13, which will offer basic services such as borrowing materials, computers, programs and study spaces.
Customers can also visit the library system’s other 18 branches and explore the digital library, which is available 24/7.
The temporary closure will also affect the Woodlawn branch’s Storyville play-and-learn center and drop boxes. During this time, the library system is encouraging families to visit Storyville at the Rosedale branch, and to access storytimes and other youth-focused programming at other branches and online.
A renovation kickoff ceremony and family fun day will take place Oct. 1, starting at 10 a.m. at the site of the regular Woodlawn branch. The event will be open to the public and will include a construction-themed story time, performances by Woodlawn High School students, a ceremony and refreshments.
