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Red Bank Library to Get $15M Upgrade

  //humor-quirks.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/06/red-bank-library-to-get-15m-upgrade.html
  Published in Humor and Quirks on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 8:07 GMT by 14 NEWS
      Locales: Indiana, UNITED STATES

EVANSVILLE, IN - February 6th, 2026 - The Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (EVPL) is poised to transform the Red Bank community with the demolition of its aging branch and the subsequent construction of a state-of-the-art library facility. Demolition is slated to commence this November, with the eagerly anticipated opening of the new library projected for 2027.

For residents of Red Bank, the current library building has been a cornerstone of the neighborhood for over five decades, first opening its doors in 1967. However, rapid population growth and evolving community needs have rendered the existing 8,000 square foot structure inadequate. The decision to rebuild, rather than renovate, was a strategic one, reflecting EVPL's commitment to providing a truly modern and expansive learning environment.

"This isn't simply about replacing an old building with a new one," explains Maria Townsend, EVPL's president and CEO. "This is about investing in the future of the Red Bank community. We've been meticulously planning this for years, gathering input from residents, and designing a space that will serve as a vibrant hub for learning, collaboration, and community engagement."

The new library, sprawling across 16,000 square feet, represents a significant expansion, effectively doubling the capacity of the current branch. This increased space will accommodate a wealth of new features designed to cater to diverse community interests and needs.

Beyond the expanded collection of books and resources, the new facility will boast a flexible meeting space, readily adaptable to accommodate a wide range of programs and events, from book clubs and workshops to community forums and presentations. Recognizing the importance of dedicated spaces for younger patrons, a designated "Teen Zone" will offer a safe and engaging environment for students to study, socialize, and explore their interests.

The digital divide is also being addressed with a substantial increase in the number of computer stations, providing vital access to technology for residents who may not have it at home. This access will be coupled with digital literacy programs designed to empower individuals with the skills necessary to navigate the modern world. For those seeking fresh air and a change of scenery, an outdoor patio will offer a relaxing space to read, work, or simply enjoy the surroundings.

A significant addition will be a dedicated community room. This flexible space will be available for reservation by local organizations and groups, fostering a sense of community ownership and providing a venue for neighborhood gatherings, meetings, and events. EVPL envisions the community room being utilized by everything from local scout troops to senior citizen groups, further cementing the library's role as a central pillar of Red Bank life.

The ambitious $15 million project is being funded through a collaborative effort involving both private donations and public funds. EVPL initiated the planning process back in 2023, prioritizing community engagement and feedback every step of the way. Town hall meetings, surveys, and focus groups were conducted to ensure that the new library truly reflects the desires and aspirations of the Red Bank residents it will serve.

To minimize disruption during construction, Red Bank residents and EVPL staff will be temporarily relocated to the Central Library. While this temporary relocation may present minor inconveniences, EVPL is committed to providing seamless access to library services throughout the construction period. Shuttle services and expanded hours at the Central Library are being considered to ensure minimal disruption.

The demolition of the existing Red Bank branch marks not an end, but a beginning. It's a testament to EVPL's dedication to providing accessible, modern, and community-focused library services. The new Red Bank library is poised to become a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and community spirit for generations to come. The project serves as a model for how libraries are evolving to meet the changing needs of the 21st century, transitioning from simple repositories of books to dynamic community hubs that foster learning, creativity, and connection.