Groundbreaking celebration marks new chapter for Southdale Library and Edina Art Center
10-08-2025
Hennepin County, along with community partners, officially broke ground on the long-anticipated redevelopment of the Southdale Library and Edina Art Center, marking the beginning of a transformative project that blends community, creativity and sustainability.
A vision years in the making
The groundbreaking ceremony, held at the future site near York Avenue South and West 70th Street in Edina, celebrated the start of construction on a facility that will house both the new Southdale Library and a reimagined Edina Art Center. The project has been in development for over a decade and reflects extensive community engagement and inter-agency collaboration.
Speakers and highlights
Remarks from Hennepin County Commissioners and leadership, along with City of Edina officials emphasized the importance of the new space as a hub for learning, creativity and connection. A ceremonial shovel-turning symbolized the shared commitment to innovation and inclusion.
"We are building more than a library. We are building a place where people will come to feel seen, supported and inspired,” said Hennepin County Commissioner Heather Edelson.
Designing for the future
The new state-of-the-art facility will feature:
A light-filled atrium designed for both library and arts events
Studio spaces and flexible classrooms for art programming on the second floor
Sustainable features including geothermal energy, solar panels and native landscaping that manage 95% of annual rainfall
A trailhead connection to the Nine Mile Creek Trail, enhancing pedestrian and cyclist access
And more
A home for creativity
The Edina Art Center, which has served the community for nearly 50 years, will find a new home within the library. The updated space will support a wide range of media and continue to foster intergenerational creativity and connection.
A collective effort
This milestone would not be possible without the dedication and expertise of county employees who have worked to bring this vision to life. From Facility Services, who is helping shape a sustainable and accessible space, to Resident Services, who ensure community needs remain at the center of every decision.
The development of this project has also been strengthened by the contributions of Hennepin County Library staff. Their expertise and input have been instrumental in shaping a space that will serve the community for generations. Not only as a library, but as a dynamic center for creativity, connection and lifelong learning.
Together, your work reflects the best of public service and the power of collaboration.
Looking ahead
Construction is anticipated to continue for the next few years, with the new facility opening to the public sometime after that. Until then, library services will remain available at alternate locations.