Learn more about the Southdale Library project

The new build of Southdale Library provides an opportunity to improve accessibility, strengthen programming and partnerships, and showcase sustainable design at one of the busiest branches in Hennepin County.

Built in 1971, Southdale Library serves the residents of Edina, Bloomington, Richfield, and Minneapolis with its extensive collections, meeting spaces, and community-responsive programming. In addition to the Library, the 7.69-acre site previously also housed a Resident & Real Estate Service Center and district courts.

Learn more about the project, ask questions, and reach out to project staff.

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West facing quiet study room - I drove by and saw it being torn down

by 3cheersforbooks, 8 months ago

The west facing 2nd floor quiet reading room was an oasis. I didn't utilize it for studying but I would gather a half dozen books (give or take a few) from the non-fiction shelves and bring them into the quiet reading room. I would choose a chair facing the west and peruse those books, reading a bit from each book and picking and choosing which ones were interesting enough for me to check out and take home. I've always been happy with a vista view that is west facing where the sun shines and where the sun eventually retreats to... Continue reading
The west facing 2nd floor quiet reading room was an oasis. I didn't utilize it for studying but I would gather a half dozen books (give or take a few) from the non-fiction shelves and bring them into the quiet reading room. I would choose a chair facing the west and peruse those books, reading a bit from each book and picking and choosing which ones were interesting enough for me to check out and take home. I've always been happy with a vista view that is west facing where the sun shines and where the sun eventually retreats to the horizon. The emotion I felt upon driving by the half demolished library (seeing that quiet reading space partially demolished, half still there and the other half hanging in space with plaster and debris) was one of sadness as I recalled peaceful times sitting there. But I also was hopeful and enthused about the potentially wonderful new space that is being created.
Quiet refuge

by life is an adventure, about 1 year ago

Can't really say I had any "fun" at Southdale Library but I did totally 100% appreciate and enjoy the quiet reading/study area on the 2nd floor which faced West. I spent many a happy hour there perusing books I had retrieved from the shelves and then deciding whether or not to check those books out. I appreciated being able to look out over the western sky and see the vista across towards the West. It was a quiet, peaceful space.
Can't really say I had any "fun" at Southdale Library but I did totally 100% appreciate and enjoy the quiet reading/study area on the 2nd floor which faced West. I spent many a happy hour there perusing books I had retrieved from the shelves and then deciding whether or not to check those books out. I appreciated being able to look out over the western sky and see the vista across towards the West. It was a quiet, peaceful space.