Library at Louisville's Mid City Mall to remain open through June 2026, adds expanded hours

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — The Highlands-Shelby Park Library will remain open at Mid City Mall after its lease was extended through June 2026, even as the shopping center is up for sale.

Michele Dutcher, who visits at least four times a week, said the decision brings relief.

“I don’t use the main branch because the computers are usually taken by people who live down there,” Dutcher said.

The library’s lease had been set to expire in October. In addition to books and DVDs, the branch provides computer access and meeting rooms often used for Jefferson County Public Schools teen programs and community events.

Interim Executive Director Barbara Sexton Smith said the landlord offered to extend the lease and the branch is also adding Sunday hours.

“We’re going to start opening the Highlands-Shelby Park branch on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and we are going to begin that on Sunday, Nov. 2,” Sexton Smith said.

While the library is staying, the Nearly New Shop, a tenant for more than 70 years, will close at the end of the month after deciding not to renew its lease. Other tenants, including ValuMarket, said they expect to remain until at least June.

Dutcher said she hopes the mall can continue serving as a one-stop destination.

“I take care of my intellectual needs and I can also take care of my food needs,” she said.

The library’s new Sunday hours are expected to continue through the extended lease.

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