City Property Management and Library Administration will request the Fort Worth City Council approval on August 13 to acquire the property at 512 W. Fourth St. for a future permanent downtown library. This decision is funded by the 2023 sale of the property at 500 W. Third St.
The Center for Transforming Lives is set to move to a larger facility by the end of the year to better support women and children escaping poverty and homelessness.
District 9 Councilmember Elizabeth Beck stated, “The new Fort Worth Downtown Library will enrich the downtown cultural landscape and serve as a vibrant hub for learning, innovation and community engagement.” She emphasized that the historic building is significant to Fort Worth residents and represents a commitment to preserving history while meeting future needs.
Residents will continue to have access to the Downtown Express location at 200 Texas St. Community input will guide the development of the new library.
Library Director Midori Clark highlighted the importance of incorporating resident feedback into the library’s design. “Since arriving in Fort Worth in January I have heard loud and clear from the community they want a downtown library and we will find ways to continue to engage with residents about how this new location is developed,” she said.
Parts of the building not covered by the historic registry will need significant renovations to accommodate a modern library. Renovation planning could start in early 2025, pending council approval of the purchase.
Approximately $6.5 million allocated from the 2023 sale of the former Central Library and City office spaces will fund the renovation. Clark noted, “Libraries are an investment in community vitality and cultural infrastructure. We’re excited for this new location to bring value to the downtown landscape and residents.”
