Public Event Re-Introduces the Historic Astoria Library After a Comprehensive Renovation
October, 2025
A ribbon cutting event on Saturday, October 25, officially opened the newly renovated Astoria Library, re-introducing the public to this asset following its comprehensive renovation. Those in attendance learned more about the new features that added increased usable square footage, seismic resilience, upgraded utilities, community space, and inspiring works from local artists.
The occasion marked a conclusion to more than a year of construction that makes use of an $8 million bond and featured remarks from several community leaders, including the Mayor of Astoria, on the importance of this historic facility. As owner’s representative, the Otak project lead and group leader were in attendance to take part in the occasion.
“I’d say we are really excited for the community to see the new space… it doesn’t feel like the same building.”
– Suzanne Harold, Astoria Library Director
With a new children’s area and 9,000 square-foot basement that’s been converted into fully useable space, the day marked a celebration of the expansion of this vital community resource. It also served as an unveiling for several works of art found throughout the building as part of an overarching effort to honor the history of this coastal community, its ecosystem and wildlife, as well as indigenous cultures.
About the Astoria Library Renovation
For nearly 50 years, the Astoria Library served its community as it was originally constructed. After passage of an $8 million bond, efficiencies in managing the full $10 million budget allowed the renovation to go beyond improvements to accessibility, technology, and building systems, adding seismic resilience as well. Much of the work focused on expanding community use of the facility and enhancing its storage of historical items, including artifacts from the Lewis and Clark expedition that led to this location as the first settlement west of the Rockies.
Archives of newspapers, books, wanted posters, and other materials dating back hundreds of years are among the thousands of other assets kept on record. A new children’s area, teen room, and various meeting rooms add to the library’s public utility. Its location near the Oregon coast provided inspiration for several art installations found throughout the building. From a cedar panel carved with the image of a Chinook Tribe Member to murals with Indigenous and Chinese themes, the pieces together paint a picture of the area’s history.
Its location near the Oregon coast provided inspiration for several art installations found throughout the building. From a cedar panel carved with the image of a Chinook Tribe Member to murals with Indigenous and Chinese themes, the pieces together paint a picture of the area’s history.
