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Bexley Community Foundation leaders, Library Board members, City of Bexley officials, and leaders from Torat Emet Synagogue gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony marking the start of significant improvements to Bexley Public Library and the Main Street corridor.
The project includes safety, accessibility, and landscaping enhancements at the library’s Main Street entrance, along with the creation of a new Outdoor Reading Room on the west side of the building, between the library and Torat Emet Synagogue. When complete, the space will offer inviting outdoor areas for reading, relaxing, and gathering, as well as dedicated areas for performances, programs, and expanded landscaping for community use.
The $1.5 million project is a collaboration between Bexley Public Library and the City of Bexley. The small park area adjacent to Torat Emet Synagogue is funded through the City’s Year of the Parks initiative, funded in part with grants from the Bexley Community Foundation. While the accessibility and safety improvements at the library entrance are supported through the Library’s Building Maintenance Fund. Additional private and public gifts may further support the project as it progresses.
Importantly, Bexley Public Library will remain open during construction and will continue to operate during normal business hours. While the Main Street entrance will be temporarily closed, visitors will enter through a temporary, fully accessible entrance located at the southeast corner of the building. Clear and ample signage will be posted throughout the construction period to guide patrons safely to the new entry point.
“Investing in these improvements will significantly change how people on Main Street connect with our library,” said Ben Heckman, Library Director. “We look forward to hosting storytimes, music, and other programs outdoors, as well as seeing neighbors gather for conversation over coffee or simply enjoy a quiet place to read.”
Construction is expected to take approximately 4–6 months, with the Main Street/front entrance anticipated to reopen by May 1, 2026.
“This project has been years in the making,” said Jim Wilson, Chair of the Bexley Public Library Board. “We are thrilled to see it come to life in a way that adds beauty, accessibility, and meaningful opportunities for connection—benefiting everyone who uses and loves our library.”
For more information about the Outdoor Reading Room visit
www.BexleyLibrary.org/ORR.
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