The future belongs to everyone: introducing the new lakefront library
We thank County Executive Calvin Ball and the County Council for unanimously approving $5M in State funds in support of the new HCLS Central Branch & Relocation capital project. We look forward to partnering with them, the community developer and other stakeholders, as well as further engaging community to bring this to reality for all of Howard County. We look forward to hearing more from our residents as we collaborate to create the best spaces and learning experiences for our community.
I firmly believe that the best public spaces should be for the community, and the opportunity to move the new Central Library to the lakefront provides those best public spaces for our residents. This new lakefront library will uplift and inspire, connect people with nature, and connect people with each other. We look forward to engaging our community in listening sessions to hear their dreams and aspirations.
Tonya Aikens, Howard County Library System President and CEO
Updates & Links
May 21, 2025
The County Council passed three amendments to the County Executive’s capital budget proposal related to the new Lakefront Library. Read them here.
Dec 5 2023
The County Council passed amendments to the County Executive’s budget related to the new Lakefront Library. Read them here.
Historical and current trends continue to demonstrate how much those who live, work and play in Howard County value and use Howard County Library System. The Columbia Downtown Plan, approved by the County Council in 2010 and updated in 2018, called for the demolition of the existing Central Branch as part of the revitalization and redevelopment of Downtown Columbia.
We have put together a number of resources for you to learn more about this project, including FAQs, a podcast episode, and economic impact study.
