Transforming Libraries – Hamline Midway | Saint Paul Public Library

Hamline Midway

Saint Paul Public Library is co-creating, with the community, a vision to transform Hamline Midway Library.

Update on Hamline Midway Library

Last updated May 2, 2026

To our Hamline Midway neighbors, thank you so much for bringing to our attention the problematic use of rubber mulch in the boulevard between the sidewalk and the street in front of the new Hamline-Midway Library. After hearing from concerned neighbors in the community and consulting our city partners in Parks and Recreation and Public Works, we asked our construction team to replace the rubber mulch with wood mulch. You can expect to see the wood mulch installed over the next few weeks. We're grateful to neighbors who flagged this who are helping us align more closely to our sustainability goals.

In addition to the wood mulch, which will be installed in all plant beds across the site, we are incorporating a number of thoughtful landscape design elements to support a more sustainable and beautiful library grounds. Here's what you can expect to see as landscaping work is completed:

Native and pollinator-friendly plant beds covering approximately 800 square feet across the site
Soil improvements in key areas, particularly near hard surfaces like sidewalks and parking areas that see salt and sand in winter, to give trees, shrubs, and perennials the best chance to thrive
A new shade tree at the outdoor gathering space
No lawn – so no need for a mower on site
On-site water storage to reduce water runoff during heavy rain event

Thank you, as always, for being engaged neighbors. We look forward to welcoming you to the new Hamline-Midway Library later this summer.

Previous updates about Hamline Midway Library.

Hamline Midway Library is currently closed.

Alternative libraries near you:

SPPL welcomes library users to visit one of the 12 other Saint Paul Public Library locations. Nearby locations include:

Merriam Park (1.6 miles)

Saint Anthony Park (2.6 miles)

Rondo Community Library at the Hallie Q. Brown Center (3.1 miles)

Rice Street (3.6 miles)

Holds:

While it is temporarily closed, Hamline Midway will not be an option to select when choosing a location to pick up your holds.

Visit the Holds page in your account to change the pick-up location for your current holds. If you do not change the pick-up location, holds will be held for you at the Rondo Community Library at the Hallie Q. Brown Center.

Mobile Library:

The Mobile Library will continue to make stops in the Hamline Midway neighborhood, including at Hamline Hi-Rise, Victoria/West Nevada, and Lyngblomsten senior residence. See the schedule for more information.