The Cleveland Public Library (CPL) Board of Trustees approved a resolution to relocate the Memorial‑Nottingham Branch to a new site adjacent to Euclid Beach Pier. The board will sublease the land, approve construction plans, and eventually demolish the existing facility, allowing the Lakeshore Boulevard property to become part of the Metroparks’ Euclid Creek Reservation.
Project timeline and coordination with Metroparks
The resolution sets a schedule that targets groundbreaking in 2028, with land transfer completed by 2030. The move aligns with Metroparks’ broader improvements to the Euclid Creek Reservation, which includes Euclid Beach, Villa Angela, and Wildwood Park. Although the resolution was tabled during the joint Finance and Human Resources Committee meeting, the board voted to suspend the regulations governing its approval, clearing the way for the project to move forward.
Progress at other CPL branches
Two other master‑plan projects are already under way. The Walz Branch, located at West 80th Street and Detroit Avenue, is being transformed into a vibrant community hub that will address accessibility, sight‑line, maintenance, and visibility issues. Chief Operating Officer John Lang reported the Walz project is more than 50 % complete and on track for occupancy in June 2027, with public opening expected in August or early September.
The Fleet Branch is also undergoing a full renovation to become a modern, fully‑renovated community library. After a ceremonial groundbreaking in June, the project has saved $400,000 from its original construction estimate, returning the funds to CPL’s contingency reserve. Completion is slated for early fall of next year.
Future expansion plans
In addition to the Memorial‑Nottingham relocation, CPL is planning a new AsiaTown branch within the Mingyue Place development. Design drawings have been submitted to the city for review, and cost estimates are expected by year‑end. If approved, construction could begin in 2027 with completion targeted for 2028.
Celebrating longtime staff
The board also honored Nancy Sommer for 39.5 years of service to CPL, most notably at the Eastman Library. Sommer, a retired teacher, will travel with her wife Iris in retirement. The trustees added L.M. Montgomery’s 1915 novel “Anne of the Island” to the permanent collection in her name, noting its timeless themes of love, perseverance, and personal growth.
Sommer expressed gratitude, saying the library has always felt open and welcoming to her, and praised the hardworking staff she worked with over the past five years.
Community involvement
Documenter Carly Elliot captured the meeting’s details, including a photo exhibit at the Collinwood Branch and resolutions for program grants and a donated chess collection. Residents interested in correcting any notes can email [email protected] with “Correction Request” in the subject line.
Original reporting: Signal Cleveland — read the source article.
