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.
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.
Hennepin County Library is embarking on a commissioned public art process to select an artist, group of artists, or multiple artists to create a work(s) of art for the new Southdale Library building. As part of this process, we are seeking information and stories about the local community that can inform the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) that will go out to artists. Please take a moment to share your insights! Your voice is crucial to selecting artwork that most authentically represents the history, culture, and people in the Southdale Library community.
The survey opened Monday, August 24, and will remain open through Friday, September 18, 2026.
Page last updated: 12 Oct 2026, 02:40 PM
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2016-2018
Learn more about the Southdale Library project has finished this stage
Public meetings to look at library functionality and adjacent site uses
2018
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County board briefing on Southdale site re-development, including selling a portion of the current site
2019
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County explores relocating the library to Southdale Mall
2023
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Planning and design of new Southdale Library begins
2023-2024
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Public meetings to engage area residents and library patrons in discussions about new build
January 6, 2025
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Southdale Library closed for new construction project
Winter - Spring 2025
Learn more about the Southdale Library project has finished this stage
Building prepared for demolition
Late summer 2025-2027
Learn more about the Southdale Library project is currently at this stage
