Community Library Sedona Unveils Stunning Renovations and Reopens Doors

The Sedona Public Library has officially transformed into the Community Library Sedona, reopening its doors on Sunday, Dec. 8, after a closure period spanning from Nov. 27. The rebranding event, aptly titled “Get Loud,” attracted an impressive crowd of between 900 and 1,100 attendees who celebrated the library’s new identity.

From 2 to 5 p.m., the library hosted various family-friendly activities including a rock-climbing wall, a mechanical bull, and live reggae music by Local Honey. Following the library festivities, attendees moved to Sedona Beer Co. Basecamp for an afterparty featuring the folk music of Rivers Run Wild.

Library Director Judy Poe emphasized the intent behind the name change: “We are a community-first organization. We want the community to have more fun. A library can be a great place for that.” Poe underscored the library’s role as an inclusive space, welcoming everyone who comes through its doors.

Changes to the library’s layout accompany the new signage. The circulation desk at the main entrance has been removed, consolidating all services to a single desk positioned further back. “The lobby space needs to be a more active space,” said Stephen Oliver, principal architect at OPA Design Studio. He noted the previous desk took up too much space and limited the potential for activity in the entry area.

Updates to the library include new carpet and paint in the Si Birch Community Room, a reconfiguration of computer and teen areas, and the addition of small private study rooms. The fireplace area has also been redesigned for better community engagement. “It is a space that we will be able to reconfigure as needed for different community programs,” Poe shared.

Poe elaborated that the new name reflects a broader vision for community events and activities. She expressed a desire to shift focus from merely books to a variety of activities that encourage engagement. Plans are in discussion for a maker space to foster more hands-on learning experiences.

Poe clarified that the initial changes represent “Phase 0” of a larger renovation project, with plans for “Phase 1” already underway. This includes constructing a new foyer and public meeting space that can operate after standard library hours. “We will be able to close that area off so it can be used independently of the main library,” Poe explained.

While specific costs and timelines for the new improvements remain unclear, Poe stated they are in the process of developing construction drawings for city approval. Meanwhile, new library cards reflecting the name change are now available to patrons.

The Community Library Sedona is preparing to launch a capital fundraising campaign aimed at financing these building improvements. Poe acknowledged the project’s phased nature: “Just like people raised the funds 30 years ago to build the library, we need to raise the funds to do this project,” underscoring the potential for evolving ideas to shape the library’s future developments.