LAWRENCE, Kan. — Lawrence Public Library is excited to announce plans to open a second location in 2027. The new storefront will be located in the Parkway Plaza Shopping Center at 3514 Clinton Parkway. The 6,400-square-foot space was previously occupied by Beauty Brands.
Informed by input from the community, the library approved a new Community Vision Plan earlier this year to help shape the library’s direction over the next twenty years. A key priority of the plan is to increase equity of access to library services for everyone in our community, and this new location is an important first step to addressing that need.
“Having a second location in the southwest part of town brings library services closer to Lawrence residents furthest away from the library,” said City Librarian Brad Allen. “The storefront location can’t replicate all the services we offer downtown, but it can serve as an incubator for us to see what services matter most in the surrounding neighborhoods.”
The downtown library will remain the heart of the system, while the new location will make it easier for more residents to access the resources, programs, and community that a great public library offers. With the location selected, renovation work will begin thanks to a funding partnership between Lawrence Public Library and its Friends & Foundation. Library administration would like to see the new library open sometime in the summer of 2027.
Find the latest updates about the project on our storefront location page.
About Lawrence Public Library
Lawrence Public Library (LPL for short) is a community hub that believes in the power of connection through shared knowledge and resources. Located in the heart of Downtown Lawrence, Kansas, we are committed to providing a space where our community can learn, connect, create, and grow through access to our vast collections, resources, services, programs, and knowledgeable staff. The library is supported by tax dollars, record-breaking book sales and philanthropic efforts by the LPL Friends & Foundation, and the dedicated efforts of more than 300 volunteers. All are welcome.