A $34.2 million renovation project to modernize and improve the Richmond Main Library will break ground on Wednesday. 

The project will focus on improving energy efficiency and creating better amenities to make use of the library, such as private study rooms and other dedicated spaces, according to a statement from the city of Richmond. 

The renovation will also address safety and maintenance problems. It was made possible by a grant from the state library system that required matching funding from the city. 

The Main Library was built in 1949 and is considered a historic example of postwar modernist architecture. It is notable for being the first glass-fronted public library in the United States, according to a city staff report that noted the building had issues with its roof, trash maintenance and other basic systems. 

The building will also serve as another community resiliency center in an emergency or in extreme weather conditions, Richmond Mayor Eduardo Martinez said in a statement. 

“We have already established Nevin Community Center as a place for people to gather in times of extreme need, whether it be temperature, earthquake, or power outage,” Martinez said. “Having the library become our second resiliency center with hopes of it becoming a self-contained microgrid with books is a dream come true.” 

The renovated building will be fully electric, with the goal of achieving sustainability marks under the LEED Silver certification program from the U.S. Green Building Council, a non-profit trade group. 

The rating requires evaluation of the building’s water and carbon use, indoor environmental conditions, among other factors, according to the organization. 

The library renovation project is being funded by over $21 million from the city’s general capital fund, a nearly $10 million grant from the state library system’s “Building Forward” program, $2 million in federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, and another $1 million in library fee money. 

New amenities created by the project will include dedicated private study rooms, a teen space, a local history room, and rooms for community use and programming, according to the city. 

The exterior will maintain a style consistent with the Civic Center’s mid-century modern style. 

Kate Eppler, deputy director of the city’s Library Division, said the renovation will result in a better library for the community. 

“This renovation will result in a beautiful, comfortable and modern Richmond Main Library,” Eppler said in a statement. 

The public is invited to attend the groundbreaking ceremony, which will be held at noon on Wednesday at the Main Library at 325 Civic Center Plaza. 

A temporary library will be open during the construction at 403 Civic Center Plaza.