Charleston Main Library renovations to begin in 2026

The Charleston County Public Library is set to begin renovations of its main branch, marking the last phase of the referendum-funded project approved by voters.
Published: Jan. 12, 2026 at 8:55 AM EST|Updated: Jan. 12, 2026 at 12:28 PM EST

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — The Charleston County Public Library is set to begin renovations of its main branch, marking the final phase of the referendum-funded project approved by voters in 2014.

The system’s largest location, located at 68 Calhoun Street, which is more than 100,000 square feet, is scheduled to close to the public in the fall with construction beginning in the final quarter of 2026, according to Charleston County Library spokesman Doug Reynolds.

A temporary site will be located at 1142 Morrison Drive, which is expected to open to the public near the time of the Main Library’s closure, and will continue to serve Charleston.

“This renovation is a major milestone for CCPL and the final step in fulfilling the vision voters supported in 2014,” Executive Director Angela Craig said. “We’re reimagining Main Library to better serve our community, with more accessible, family-friendly spaces and modern features that reflect how people use the library today. While construction is underway, our temporary location will keep core services available, and our patrons connected.”

The temporary facility will offer core library services, including the ability to browse and check out materials, pick up holds, use public computers, access Wi-Fi, and participate in select programs. Additional service details will be announced later this year, Reynolds said.

Additional details about closure timing and new space features will be released as the project timeline progresses. For more information on other library locations and services available to residents of Charleston County, click here to learn more or contact your local library.