Omaha explores new 72nd and Dodge library branch

Omahans might see a new and different library facility rise southwest of the busy 72nd and Dodge Streets intersection.

That public library, which is not a done deal, is separate from the City of Omaha’s ongoing and controversial process to relocate the  downtown W. Dale Clark Library to 1401 Jones St.

Mutual of Omaha said earlier this week it plans a skyscraper headquarters at 14th and Douglas Streets on the current site of the main downtown library.

Representatives of several entities, including the City of Omaha and Do Space, revealed Friday the latest steps in a plan to build a central library facility at the spot where Do Space, one of the nation’s first technology libraries, opened in 2015.

While the project is not guaranteed, those involved said in a press release that design work has already started. They said Do Space programs would be incorporated into the traditional library services, and current programs would somehow continue during the transition.

A website has launched to update the public about the proposed facility.

The philanthropic nonprofit Heritage Omaha, which would raise funds to manage the design and construction, has received seed funding to tap three partners. 

HDR architectural firm is lead designer; Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture will focus on interior space design; and Margaret Sullivan Studio will coordinate community engagement.