In November 2006, Austin voters overwhelmingly approved Bond Proposition 6 to build the New Central Library. In December 2010, Austin City Council approved a $120 million funding plan for the New Central Library’s construction budget.  Because bond funds could only be used to underwrite construction costs, The Library Foundation seeks the generous support of individuals, corporations, and foundations to raise the additional funds necessary to enhance the library experience for all community members.  Please join The Library Foundation as we provide enhancements in the following areas:

• expanded PRINT AND DIGITAL COLLECTIONS
• cutting edge TECHNOLOGY
• public ART
• innovative PROGRAMMING
• an ENDOWMENT for the future

The Library Foundation is honored to offer recognition opportunities for gifts in support of the New Central Library Enhancement Campaign. For a list or recognition opportunities click here.

Make a gift today;  click here for our Gift Form.  Donations at all levels will be recognized on the Library Foundation’s website.

As Austin’s gateway to knowledge, the New Central Library is redefining the library experience for the 21st century. Designed by award-winning Lake|Flato Architects and Shepley Bulfinch, this new flagship building overlooking iconic Lady Bird Lake is devoted to Austin’s intellectual inquiry and cultural vitality.

The New Central Library provides the entire community access to boundless knowledge through cutting-edge technology, extensive print and digital collections, and dynamic and enriching programming. The facility features flexible blended spaces designed to meet the ever-changing needs of our community including:

– A 350-seat state-of-the-art event center to host readings, lectures and screenings and to engage and educate all segments of our community.
– An art gallery that will feature the work of local and national artists.
– Special display areas and collections showcasing Austin’s musical and cinematic achievements.
– A children’s library with a craft room and reading porch designed to enhance children’s reading experience and spark imaginations.
– A teen library that will provide young adults with a dedicated space promoting creative and collaborative learning.
– A street-level café that features indoor and outdoor dining.
– Recycled Reads Boutique.
– A rooftop garden featuring native species and stunning views of the city’s skyline.
– A rooftop special event area.
– A cooking demonstration area to host on-site cooking classes that celebrate Austin’s culinary consciousness.
– A bicycle corral adjacent to the Lance Armstrong Bikeway.
– An underground 200-car parking garage.

The New Central Library’s sustainable design features include:
– Six stories of glass and stone
– On site energy production
– Extensive use of daylight and LEDs
– Demand controlled ventilation
– Variable water flow
– A 200kV Photovoltaic array
– A rainwater harvesting system
– Vegetated roof
– Regional and recycled construction materials