City Council to vote on proposed property purchase for downtown Fort Worth Public Library
July 31,2024
Reposted from the City of Fort Worth.
Utilizing the funds from the sale of property located at 500 W. 3rd St. in 2023, City Property Management and Library Administration will seek approval from City Council on Aug. 13 to purchase the property at 512 W. 4th St. for a future, permanent downtown library.
The 4th Street property is a historic building currently serving as the Center for Transforming Lives headquarters, which will relocate to a new, larger facility at the end of the year to better serve women and children escaping poverty and homelessness.
“The new Fort Worth Downtown Library will enrich the downtown cultural landscape and serve as a vibrant hub for learning, innovation and community engagement,” said District 9 Councilwoman Elizabeth Beck, “This historic building holds a special place in the hearts of Fort Worth residents and is a testament to Fort Worth’s dedication to preserving our city’s history while advancing our future to meet the evolving needs of our diverse community.”
While downtown residents will continue to have access to the Downtown Express location at 200 Texas St., future community input will inform the development of the building.
“When we bring a library into any neighborhood it is vitally important to hear from the residents what they need and want in their community,” said Library Director Midori Clark. “Since arriving in Fort Worth in January I have heard loud and clear from the community they want a downtown library and we will find ways to continue to engage with residents about how this new location is developed.”
Portions of the building not protected by the historic registry will require major renovations to serve as a modern, public library. Pending a council-approved sale, planning for renovations could begin in early 2025. In addition to the purchase, approximately $6.5 million for the building renovation will come from the 2023 sale of the former Central Library and City office spaces.
“Libraries are an investment in community vitality and cultural infrastructure,” said Clark, “We’re excited for this new location to bring value to the downtown landscape and residents.”
Community members interested in staying updated on the progress of the future downtown library can sign up for email notifications from the library.
Location Mentioned: Center for Transforming Lives