State-of-the-art library in Louisville's Fern Creek neighborhood could open in 2026

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- An 18,000-square-foot, state-of-the art library is planned for the vacant space on Fern Creek Road next to Fern Creek High School.

The library was slated for construction last spring, and expected to be complete this year.

However, all that currently occupies the site of the future Fern Creek Library is a sign depicting what's to come.

"We're going to make it happen, and hopefully, it's supposed to be completed in 2026," said Kevin Bratcher, R-22.

Councilman Bratcher's cautious optimism comes following the announcement of the project in 2022.

Since then, officials have secured the property, a vacant home on the lot was demolished, and work is underway to secure building permits.

Funding has delayed the rest of the work.

"We were having some fundraising issues, and there's a lot of competing issues around the town," Bratcher said, referencing the scope of investments in other Louisville libraries.

Aside from building the new Fern Creek Library, the city is renovating the Portland and main library locations. Crews are also working to reopen the Parkland Library, which closed in 1986.

The total cost of all the work is more than $44 million, which includes the $16.5 million needed for the Fern Creek Library. The city is using American Rescue Plan funding for most of the work, earmarked state and city funding, and the rest is coming from private donations through the Library Foundation.

"We've got enough to build a library now, but we're going to need a few more million to make it one of the best in the country," said Bratcher.

Despite not having the funding totally secured, officials believe there is enough money to begin construction this spring in hopes that the remaining dollars show up in time for a summer 2026 opening date. It's not clear how much more money is needed.

fern creek library opening date — The Louisville Free Public Library Foundation's website shows an updated completion date for summer 2026.
Dalton Godbey

The plans for the new library in Fern Creek feature natural light, quiet and comfortable spaces to read and study, meeting rooms and dedicated areas for children and teens.

"Anybody that wants to see it happen, whether you live in Fern Creek or not, should get on board," Bratcher said.

You can help fundraising efforts for the new library by donating here.

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