Fairview-Columbia Library Reopening to Public August 9

Fairview-Columbia Library is reopening to the public on August 9, welcoming patrons into an engaging, refreshed library space.

The work at Fairview is a continuation of the Refresh projects, providing smaller but still important upgrades to 10 libraries. Fairview-Columbia Library closed to the public on January 19, 2024 to undertake these bond-funded improvements. The reopening of Fairview was delayed due to the apartment above the library experiencing a fire which set off the apartment’s sprinkler system. The water leaked into Fairview, causing damage. In assessing the extent of the water damage, some drywall, electrical wiring, insulation and ceiling panels needed to be replaced in addition to the other Refresh work that was planned. This caused a delay in the opening date and the library thanks the community for their patience with these unforeseen circumstances. 

Fairview’s inviting children’s area, complete with soft seating and fun animal chairs; photo courtesy of Multnomah County Library
Multnomah County Library is building, expanding and renovating library spaces for the public as a result of the voter-approved 2020 Library building bond. This year, the library system is seeing a dramatic reinvention by building and expanding five libraries and a series of Refresh projects to libraries across the system. Recently, on July 13, the library welcomed community members into a new Holgate Library. 

New features at Fairview include:

• Improved shelf height to create more space for people and better sight lines
• An inviting children’s area with new, movable furniture, including soft seating and fun animal chairs
• New, comfortable reading room chairs (both with and without arms) as well as new lounge chairs in the adult area
• A SmartShelf which easily checks in materials placed on any shelf
• A Tech Bar which provides an area for patrons to use the copy machine, scanner and computers
• New, lightweight meeting room chairs
• Fresh paint and new carpet for an updated, inviting experience

 Smartshelf by Lyngsoe which checks in any material placed on any shelf; photo courtesy of Multnomah County Library