Published:
DC Public Library is planning to build a new full-service library for the residents of the Edgewood and Eckington communities. The Library is currently conducting a site selection process.
The project budget is $24 million. A new library for the Edgewood/Eckington neighborhood is tentatively slated to open in Spring 2030.
Once completed, this library will replace the small co-located Northwest One Library.
Edgewood/Eckington Site Selection
DC Public Library is currently evaluating potential locations.
There are currently four sites being considered which can be seen on the map to the right:
- 701 Michigan Ave NE (SK Investments Development)
- 3315-3329 8th St. NE (Menkiti Group Properties)
- 600 Rhode Island Ave NE (MRP Bryant Street Development)
-
605 Rhode Island Ave NE (Jair Lynch-Wilkes-GMCHC Development)
While the Library evaluated the Penn Center Annex (1709 3rd Street NE), the historic building's condition likely makes this site extremely financially challenging.
Community members have emphasized a desire for the new library location to:
- Provide ease of access, with an emphasis on walkability and proximity to public transit and the MBT
- Ensure Safe vehicular and pedestrian travel paths for seniors and schoolchildren
- Serves as a hub for community gathering
- Maximize access to natural light and views
- Contribute to human well-being for staff and customers
Additional parameters, include:
- Stand-alone buildings or as part of a planned mixed-use development
- Proximity to public transportation, and adjacent to other neighborhood amenities
The site inventory and shortlisted sites will continue to meet the several parameters such as:
- Allow ownership or a long term lease of the library site (as opposed to short term lease)
- Allow for: Stand-alone library or part of a planned mixed-use development compatible with library’s design excellence goals
- Purchasing space in an existing mixed-use facility will not be considered
Community Engagement Opportunities
Community input is always a critical part of designing a new DC Public Library location and we are committed to ensuring that the new neighborhood library reflects its residents. To do this, we are starting an ongoing conversation with the neighbors of Edgewood Eckington. The Library is engaging residents in a variety of ways including:
- Surveys
- Focus Groups
- Community Meetings
- Online Engagement
- Attendance at community events
The library wants to connect with you based on your engagement preferences to ensure that you can participate in a way that works best for you. Click the button below and complete the form to help us work together to create a vibrant and inclusive space for all!
If you have ideas for ways the Library can reach residents, please contact Martha Saccocio at martha.saccocio@dc.gov or 202-604-8241.
Previous Community Engagement Opportunities
April 2024 | ANC 5F Meeting Presentation
The library presented at the Apr. 15, 2024 ANC 5F Community Meeting.