City of Saint Paul Prevails Following 16 Months of Litigation, Will Move Forward with New Hamline Midway Library

SAINT PAUL – Today, the Second Judicial District Court ruled the City of Saint Paul may proceed with building a new Hamline Midway Library on the site where the existing library is located. This decision comes after 16 months of litigation which delayed the project, which was set for construction in fall 2023. 

Hamline Midway Library is one of three total libraries slated for transformation through Saint Paul Public Library’s Transforming Libraries initiative. Extensive engagement and analysis informed the decision to fully replace the Hamline Midway Library in order to provide a deeply accessible, safe, and flexible library space that meets community members’ needs and desires now and for future generations. Shortly after the library closed for decommissioning, a lawsuit was filed in Ramsey County District Court to preserve the building. 

“I applaud this decision and look forward to finally fulfilling our promise of an accessible, safe, and modern public library that all of our Hamline-Midway families can enjoy,” said Mayor Melvin Carter. 

"The Midway deserves major city investment in vibrant public spaces for the future of our diverse community,” said Council President Mitra Jalali. “I am thrilled that the Hamline-Midway Library will be rebuilt to better serve our neighborhood. This is a victory for all our residents.” 

The Saint Paul Public Library is committed to building a city where all people feel seen, safe, and welcome. The critical roles libraries play in providing access to vital, transformative resources and technology can only be met in spaces designed to provide those needs. 

“Libraries are essential spaces of belonging and connection in our city,” said Library Director Maureen Hartman, “We are so excited to honor the voices of our neighbors and deliver on this vision with the new Hamline Midway Library.” 

Following the court’s ruling, the city will commence collaboration with its partners to begin construction efforts. The project is anticipated to take 18 months for completion. 

For more information about the Hamline Midway Library and for ongoing updates, please visit www.sppl.org/transform. 

###