The Allen Public Library in Texas is set to reopen on December 8, 2025, following a significant expansion that adds 18,000 square feet to its existing facilities. After being closed for over a year due to construction, the library will now feature larger dedicated spaces for children and teenagers, along with enhanced study areas and social gathering zones.
Originally built in 2005 with a size of 54,000 square feet, the library has undergone extensive renovations that were funded by a $19.9 million expansion project. This initiative was made possible through a $16 million bond approved by local voters in 2016, supplemented by additional maintenance funds from the city. The library temporarily relocated to the former Rountree Elementary School campus during the renovations, which began in August 2024.
Hidell Associates Architects, a firm renowned for its work on public libraries, led the design of the expansion. The firm has collaborated on over 300 public library projects nationwide. Principal Tony Blaas emphasized that the design aimed to prioritize energy efficiency while creating a welcoming environment for younger visitors. Feedback from a mayor-appointed steering committee, chaired by former City Council member Eileen Tollett, played a crucial role in shaping the new layout.
The newly designed children’s section includes vibrant furnishings such as small orange chairs and colorful keyboards, allowing children to engage with learning materials in an inviting atmosphere. The teen area has tripled in size and now features TV screens for gaming, providing a space for social interaction among adolescents. Tollett, who has a long-standing connection with the library dating back to her volunteer days in the 1970s, noted the importance of having adequate space for children to explore and learn.
“The earlier library was cramped, and programming for kids was limited,” Tollett remarked. “Now, they have all the space in the world to explore.” This sentiment underscores the community’s desire for a library that serves as a hub for learning and engagement.
The library’s expansion also introduces six study rooms that can be reserved online, enhancing its functionality for students and community members seeking quiet spaces for work or study. Additionally, the facility will feature four self-service checkout kiosks and an automated sorting system to streamline the library’s operations, which house a collection of 150,000 items.
Despite these advancements, the new library will not include the Food for Thought Market & Café that was previously located in the lobby. The decision reflects a shift in focus towards maximizing space for library services and community gathering.
In a statement, Blaas emphasized the library’s role in the community: “Libraries are the connecting building to the community. The vision when we renovated was that it was going to be welcoming, modern, and accessible.” This renovation marks a significant milestone in the city’s ongoing development and commitment to providing quality public services.
As the Allen Public Library prepares to welcome visitors back, it stands as a testament to the evolving needs of the community and the importance of investing in public resources that encourage learning, creativity, and collaboration.
