Renton Public Library
Design and construction
The library sits astride a river – the Cedar River – one of the only libraries in the United States to do so.
The building is about 80 feet (24 m) long, spanning the river on a bridge-like precast concrete girder and tie system riding on pilings.
Renovation
The library was closed June 22, 2014 for a $10.2 million renovation, to include new pilings into the banks of the Cedar River for seismic retrofitting, and replacement of wall-mounted windows with floor-to-ceiling glass for better river views and natural light. After renovation the library reopened in August, 2015.
For the renovation, Miller Hull Partnership architects were awarded AIA/ALA Library Building Award in 2016, then in 2017 won the American Institute of Architects Seattle chapter's Civic Design Honor Award for its rehabilitation.
Salmon viewing
The library's location over the Cedar River is considered a prime location to view spawning Northwest salmon species including Sockeye, Coho and Chinook.