Construction work on Sumner Library is underway

In their first month of work, KMS Construction, a Black-owned construction company headquartered in Minneapolis, has begun interior selective demolition. Because of Sumner Library’s designation as a historic building, per the City of Minneapolis’ Heritage Preservation Commission, the construction team is carefully and consciously protecting the built-in shelving and millwork in the building as pictured above.

The interior selective demolition will continue throughout the building, and the team will begin their work on the restoration of the windows. Construction is projected to finish in fall 2024 with an anticipated reopening soon after.

Temporary service location

Throughout the closure, limited services will be provided at a temporary location in the University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC). Hours for the temporary space are: :

• Monday – Noon to 7 p.m.
• Wednesday – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Thursday – Noon to 7 p.m.

Services available at the temporary location include:

• Access to public computers, printing, copying, and scanning
• On-site technology assistance from library staff
• Homework Help
• Tax Assistance program (Wednesdays 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. February 7 through April 10, by appointment only – call 612-543-2109 for more tax assistance information)

The temporary space at UROC is accessible by Metro Transit using the C Line or Route 7.

Project updates

Interested in receiving future updates on the project? Subscribe to the  Sumner Library updates email list or visit the Sumner Library building project page.