Stevens Ranch Central Library Is Taking Shape!

If you’ve driven past 27th Street lately, you’ve seen it—Bend’s new Stevens Ranch Library is rising fast.

Construction is really moving. The main structure is up, and crews are making steady progress toward what’s going to be a beautiful and much-needed 100,000 sq feet community space. The temporarily closed stretch of 27th Street should reopen soon, which will be a big relief for those of us who’ve been dodging detours for the past several months. While we still don’t have an official opening date, the exterior is looking close to done. And what has me excited? The mass timber design inside. I haven’t seen it in person yet, but judging by the plans and the early renderings, this is going to be one of the most architecturally interesting public buildings in Bend.

Mass timber isn't just about aesthetics—it’s also a smart, sustainable choice. The exposed wood beams will bring warmth and character to the space, and I can already imagine the light filtering through those high windows and hitting that timber just right.

The Stevens Ranch Library is part of the Deschutes Public Library’s larger “Future Libraries” bond project, which is bringing long overdue updates and new construction to serve the region’s growing population. This branch will serve the southeast part of Bend and include everything from dedicated children’s and teen areas to flexible community rooms and modern tech services.

We’re lucky to live in a place that invests in public spaces like this. I’ll keep watching the progress and sharing updates (and photos) as we get closer to opening day. If you’re curious about the full project scope, check out Deschutes Library’s site.

Until then, I’ll be over here daydreaming about books, sunlight, and the smell of fresh timber.

Photos from May 23, 2025

https://youtu.be/pCBXxuJHsiE