5 Must-Know Updates: The Salina Public Library’s Major ‘Re-Imagining’ And New Services For 2025

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The Salina Public Library (SPL) is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its recent history, making it a vibrant hub of information and learning for 2025 and beyond. This ambitious initiative, dubbed 'Re-Imagining Our Library,' focuses on modernizing its physical spaces and expanding its digital and community outreach programs, ensuring the library remains an essential resource for every resident of Salina, Kansas. The core of this update is a massive remodel of the Youth Services department, a project set to dramatically enhance the experience for the city's youngest patrons and their families, with construction beginning in the winter of 2025. The following in-depth overview provides the most current information, covering everything from the library’s essential profile and hours to the exciting new projects and unique services that build its topical authority as a key community and educational institution in Salina, KS. Whether you are a long-time resident, a student, or a visitor, the SPL offers a wealth of resources that extend far beyond traditional book lending.

Salina Public Library: Institutional Profile and Essential Information

The Salina Public Library has served the Salina community for over a century, tracing its founding back to 1900. It stands today as a central pillar of the city, dedicated to its core mission of connecting people to information, learning, and culture. The library is renowned for its striking aesthetic and spacious design, making it a welcoming environment for study, collaboration, and community engagement. The library’s commitment to accessibility is reflected in its current operating schedule, which includes weekend hours to accommodate various community needs. General services, including the popular Pickup Service, are available throughout the week.

Key Library Details (2025)

  • Official Name: Salina Public Library (SPL)
  • Year Founded: 1900
  • Mission Statement: Connecting people to information, learning, and culture.
  • Physical Address: 301 W. Elm St., Salina, KS 67401
  • Phone Number: (785) 825-4624
  • Example Pickup Service Hours:
    • Monday – Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
    • Friday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
    • Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Sunday: Noon – 5 p.m.
  • Key Initiative: Re-Imagining Our Library (Major Capital Project)

The ‘Re-Imagining Our Library’ Initiative: Youth Services Remodel and Future Plans

The most exciting and current news surrounding the Salina Public Library is the "Re-Imagining Our Library" initiative. This multi-phase capital project is designed to modernize and enhance the facility, starting with a significant focus on its lower-level Youth Services department.

1. State-of-the-Art Youth Services Remodel (Starting Winter 2025)

The full remodel of the Youth Services space is scheduled to begin in November 2025. This project is a major undertaking that will temporarily relocate all youth collections and programming while construction is underway. The goal is to create a state-of-the-art space that serves as a dedicated destination for youth and families. The new design will transform the area into a dynamic environment where children can read, play, create, learn, and grow. This comprehensive remodel demonstrates the SPL’s deep commitment to early childhood education and providing cutting-edge resources for Salina’s next generation. The updates are set to include new lighting, modern display spaces, and enhanced visitor seating to make the area more vibrant and functional.

2. Main-Level Art and Media Area Updates (2026)

Following the Youth Services project, the library has plans for further updates to its main level. Specifically, the art and media area is slated for redesign in 2026. These updates will introduce a redesigned display space and new visitor seating, further enhancing the library’s role as a cultural center that promotes local artists and provides comfortable spaces for media consumption.

3. Ongoing Fundraising Efforts (2025 Challenge Match)

To support these ambitious projects and ongoing services, the Salina Public Library actively engages in fundraising. In 2025, the library is working toward a significant year-end $100,000 matching challenge. Community support is vital for reaching this goal and ensuring the successful completion of the 'Re-Imagining Our Library' initiative.

Beyond Books: Unique Services and Topical Authority Entities

The Salina Public Library is more than just a place to borrow books; it is a full-service community center offering a wide array of specialized services that build its topical authority in multiple areas, from legal assistance to historical research.

4. Genealogy and Local History Research

For those interested in family history or local Salina archives, the SPL is an invaluable resource. The library provides unparalleled access to genealogical and local history research through several key services:
  • Ancestry.com - Library Edition: Patrons can access this premier family history database for free from within the library, providing millions of documents to trace lineage.
  • Community History Archives: In partnership with Advantage Archives, the SPL offers access to local primary sources, which is a crucial educational resource for serious researchers.
  • Genealogy Club: The library hosts a Genealogy Club, offering a platform for enthusiasts to share resources, tips, and expertise on publishing family history and conducting research.
These resources make the Salina Public Library a key destination for anyone conducting in-depth research into their family tree or the history of Saline County.

5. Essential Community and Digital Services

The SPL offers a suite of essential services that address daily community needs, making it a true hub of information and assistance:
  • Notary Service: The library provides Notary Service, a crucial administrative offering that saves community members time and money.
  • Outreach Programs: The library actively expands its reach through Outreach programs, ensuring that information and learning are accessible to all segments of the population, including those who may not be able to visit the physical building.
  • Clubs and Learning: Beyond books, the library hosts various Clubs and Learning programs, such as Toddler Storytime for early childhood development, the Mystery Book of the Month for adult readers, and Family Movie & Craft events.
  • Databases A-Z: A wide range of digital resources are available, covering everything from academic research to hobbies, making the library a comprehensive digital learning center.
The Salina Public Library’s dynamic updates, particularly the major Youth Services Remodel starting in late 2025, solidify its role as a forward-thinking and essential institution. By blending traditional library services with cutting-edge digital resources and modern facilities, the SPL continues to fulfill its mission of connecting the people of Salina, KS, to the information, learning, and culture they need to thrive.
public library salina ks
public library salina ks

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