Southdale Library transformation underway

View of excavation for the underground parking lot - looking to the southwest.

With deconstruction, demolition, and groundbreaking complete, transformation of the Southdale Library site is underway.

Demolition highlights

Deconstruction of the library began in January 2025. This process included the careful decommissioning of the building to ensure as much building material as possible could be diverted from the landfill.

Hennepin County’s Climate Action Plan identifies a target of diverting at least 75% of construction and demolition waste for reuse or recycling. Initial reports indicate that nearly 90% of the Southdale Library building was recycled or reused during the demolition process. This includes:

• More than 7,000 tons of material (1,200 tons of metal, 6,000 tons of concrete, and 3 tons of glass)
• Nearly 150 tons of furniture, fixtures, and equipment
• 20,033 pounds of carpet, vinyl flooring, and rubber

A phased approach to this work allowed crews to make the biggest impact and lower the project’s carbon footprint.

What’s next?

With the site cleared, contractors have a blank slate to begin work for the new build. The following tasks are in progress or will begin this fall:

• Digging for underground parking
• Drilling for the geothermal wells, nearly 450 feet in depth
• Underground structures, footings, piers, and foundations

Project updates

Interested in receiving future updates on the project? Subscribe to the Southdale Library email list or visit the Southdale Library building project page.