Project Overview | Share Your Thoughts | Library Design Team
Project Overview
The Library is working on an exciting interior design project to reimagine some of our public spaces and update furnishings and finishes throughout the building. While many areas of the Library remain vibrant and well-used, others are over 20 years old and showing signs of wear or no longer meet the needs of our community. This project will focus on making better use of underutilized spaces, refreshing high-traffic areas, and enhancing the overall look and feel of the Library.
The Library has completed the schematic design phase – the “big ideas” stage of the project – shaped by feedback from our patrons and staff. This phase outlines the major design concepts, overall floor plan, and the key building systems. The Library Board of Trustees approved the schematic design at their August 2025 meeting.
This project is estimated to be completed over the next 12-18 months. When a more detailed schedule is known, we’ll share it.
Thank you to the Bloomfield Township community for approving the renewal of one of the Library’s three millage rates in February 2024. Due to your support and the careful stewardship of the budget by the Library Board of Trustees, funding for this project will come from the Library’s general fund.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Library paying for the design project?
Thanks to the careful financial stewardship of the Library Board of Trustees and the renewal of the Library’s millage in 2024, the design project will be funded through the Library’s existing fund balance. No new millages or bonds will be required.
Why does the Library need a redesign?
Many spaces throughout the Library are underutilized, and much of the furniture and finishes are showing their age. The last major renovation took place from 2005 to 2008, meaning most furniture and carpet are nearly 20 years old. With an average of 4,800 visitors each week for two decades, natural wear and tear have taken their toll. In addition, technology use has evolved – patrons often bring their own devices now, creating a need for more flexible study spaces and fewer desktop computers.
What areas of the Library will be updated?
This design project focuses on all public areas of the Library.
When will the renovation begin?
The Library is still in the planning and design phases. Construction is currently expected to begin in fall 2026.
Will the Library need to close during construction?
The Library plans to remain open as much as possible during construction while ensuring the safety of patrons and staff. No prolonged closures are anticipated, and every effort will be made to maintain access to resources, technology, and services throughout the project.
How did the Library gather community input?
Planning for this project began with the development of the Library’s 2023–2028 Strategic Plan. A community survey gathered more than 500 responses, many highlighting challenges and accessibility concerns that could be addressed through thoughtful design updates. During the design process, the Library also invited feedback through a Furniture Fair in September 2025 and Coffee Chats in October 2025, promoted through newsletters, social media, and in the building. Community response has been overwhelmingly positive, and we look forward to continuing to share updates as the project moves forward.
What will happen to the old furniture?
Furniture that remains in good condition will be reused and incorporated into the new design. Items that cannot be reused will be offered for sale to the community, with any remaining pieces donated to other organizations.
Library Design Team
The Library put out a request for proposals in October 2024 for a firm to create and implement a comprehensive space planning and design strategy to revitalize underutilized areas of the Library. In January 2025, the Library Board of Trustees selected C2AE, in partnership with Reed Walker Design Collective.
C2AE brings decades of experience transforming dozens of public library spaces in Michigan and beyond. Reed Walker Design Collective engaged with the Library previously during the predesign and research phase of this project, becoming deeply familiar with the facility, the staff and Trustees, and the goals of the Library’s 2023-2028 strategic plan.
The team consists of:
- Jenna Reed Walker, Lead Interior Designer and Owner of RWDC
- Chloe Aalsburg, Interior Design and Client Manager at C2AE
- Jared Secor, Project Manager at C2AE
- Dennis Jensen, Project Architect at C2AE
- Marie Arrington, Architectural Designer at C2AE