Progress reveals book-inspired face of new Omaha library [Video]

Progress on Omaha Public Library’s new Central Library at 72nd and Dodge Streets is starting to reveal its distinctive design.

Construction is far enough along for passersby to get a sense of the “book” design concept.

Courtni Kopietz, marketing manager for the Omaha Public Library, said the concept is a subtle visual reference to the lifted edge of a book’s pages, which is why the east and west sides rise up in a way to show a peek at the interior of the building.

“It’s not a direct translation, but a general inspiration for the outline of the building,” she said.

Construction progress is going well, and the project is on schedule, she said. It is on track to open in the spring of 2026, she said.

HDR, an Omaha-based architecture and engineering practice, is lead designer, …