The Deschutes Public Library plans to open a 100,000-square foot central library on Bend’s east side, in order to adjust to the city’s growing population. After years of trial and error, the construction started in January, 2024 and is expected to be done in spring of 2026.

This new central library stands three stories tall on an eight-and-a-half-acre lot in the Stevens Ranch area on the northeast edge of Bend. Key features include Thump coffee, a drive-up window, large community spaces for rent, dedicated study space, a teen floor and a solar-powered design.

Library employee Chantal Stobel, who has been working as an assistant director of community engagement for 32 years, looks forward to seeing what the future holds for the new central library. 

“We are eager to serve Summit high school students for decades to come and welcome them into all of our new and renovated spaces,” Stobel explained, encouraging students to stop by and get a free library card to enjoy the unique resources of the library.

Many Summit students use the public library as a place to study outside of school and home, including sophomore Lea Heraus, an avid library-goer. 

“It gives me time to focus,” Heraus said. “I can do some studying or any extra [work].”

While the central library opens, the downtown branch will temporarily close for renovations expected to be completed in spring 2027. The move from downtown to the new location is set to take place gradually over the span of three months from February to April.

Big changes are underway, and many students are excited to see what’s ahead. Sophomore Bella DeMarco said that this improvement will be beneficial to Bend’s growing community and is looking forward to the opening.

“I’m so excited for the new improvements across town,” said DeMarco. 

As Bend continues to grow, this central library makes a leap forward towards meeting the community’s changing needs, expanding space, features and opportunities for students and residents.