Southwest Portland residents who use the Hillsdale Library will need to find another branch starting August 24. The library at 1525 SW Sunset Blvd. will close for roughly four months of construction, with its last day open to the public on August 23, according to the Multnomah County Library website.
The work includes a new roof for the entire building, energy-efficient LED lighting throughout, ADA restroom upgrades with accessible wave operators (hands-free door openers), and new HVAC equipment.
Where the money comes from
The upgrades are funded by leftover resources from the 2020 Multnomah County Library Capital Bond, the $387 million measure voters approved in November 2020 with nearly 60% support. Library officials say the Hillsdale work is possible because bond projects have stayed on budget despite rising construction costs.
The bond program's independent oversight committee reported in its fiscal year 2024 annual report that the overall program is running more than two years ahead of schedule. One major project, the Operations Center, came in under budget, freeing about $6 million for other improvements. With bond premium reserves and interest income, the total program budget has grown to $445.7 million.
Hillsdale's upgrades fall into the bond's "refresh" category, smaller-scale improvements funded from savings after the program's eight major branch renovations and a new East County flagship library were budgeted.
Where to go instead
During the closure, patrons can have holds routed to another location. The nearest alternatives:
- Capitol Hill Library — 10723 SW Capitol Hwy., Portland
- Central Library — 801 SW 10th Ave., Portland
- Sellwood-Moreland Library — 7860 SE 13th Ave., Portland
Customers with questions about due dates or holds can reach the library at multcolib.org/contact or by phone at 503-988-5123.
The library system will announce the exact December reopening date once construction wraps.
