Main Library to close for renovation beginning Aug. 1

Temporary downtown location to continue core services during closure
The Charleston County Public Library will close its Main Library in downtown Charleston on...
The Charleston County Public Library will close its Main Library in downtown Charleston on Saturday, Aug. 1, to begin renovations.(Live 5)
Published: May 6, 2026 at 9:03 AM EDT

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — The Charleston County Public Library will close its Main Library in downtown Charleston on Saturday, Aug. 1, to begin renovations.

The library’s last day of public service will be Friday, July 31, which marks the final phase of the referendum-funded project approved by voters in 2014.

Renovation work is expected to take about 18 months at 68 Calhoun St.

The renovation will relocate children and teen services to the same floor, making it easier for families to use the library together. The project plans also include refreshed public spaces and enhanced programming areas, supporting how the community learns, creates and connects at the library.

“This closure marks the beginning of an important transformation for our Main Library,” Angela Craig, CCPL executive director, said. “While this location will be temporarily unavailable, the investment allows us to create a more functional, accessible, and welcoming space for the future. We remain committed to serving our community throughout construction, with continued access to essential services and resources at our temporary location and across our library system.”

The Charleston County Public Library will continue serving the downtown peninsula at a temporary location at 1142 Morrison Dr.; an opening date will be announced soon.

The temporary facility will offer core library services, including:

  • Browsing collections for children, teens and adults
  • Interlibrary loan support
  • Limited space for select events and programs
  • Holds pickup
  • Exterior materials return
  • Public computers for all ages
  • Staff assistance

A community meeting will be held Monday, May 11, from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Main Library to provide updates and details on the renovation project and to give the public a chance to ask questions.

Additional details about closure timing and new space features will be released as the project timeline progresses.

For more information on other Charleston County Public Library locations and services, visit the Charleston County Public Library website or contact your local library.