An effective public library, responsive to the needs and desires of its diverse constituents, lies at the core of any vibrant community. In 1988, the Salt Lake City Public Library initiated a ten-year capital improvement plan. As a result of that project, each of the library's five branches were remodeled, expanded, or replaced. A needs assessment revealed that the current Main Library is deficient in a number of areas. Collections have outgrown available space.
Dedicated parking is nonexistent and nearby parking limited.
Architectural details and finishes, furnishings, and equipment are heavily worn from more than 30 years of heavy use by the public. The mechanical, electrical, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems need upgrading or replacement. Because the building was opened before the advent of the electric typewriter, the building was not designed for the extensive wiring necessary for current and future technologies. The Library Board, with the support of the City Council, began planning for a new main library for Salt Lake City. In early 1998, the Library Board retained the RPG Partnership firm to develop a comprehensive building program to outline the functional specifications for a new facility.