The Oshkosh Public Library is beginning a major renovation project. Sept. 29, 2026. PC: Fox 11 Online
OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The Oshkosh Public Library is looking to make major renovations.
The 126-year-old building near downtown Oshkosh was last renovated in the mid-1990s, when a new building was built around the existing site built in 1900.
Why is it looking into renovations?
“The space needs at the time, the technology at the time, even power uses at the time, was all very different,” said Oshkosh Public Library Director Darryl Eschete.
Libraries are now used more for meeting spaces, as places to attend programs and spots where community members can use different technology — all different than it was back in the 1990s. The library is just getting this plan off the ground and has no further details yet, but knowing the needs have changed will inform the process.
“We’re open to anything,” said Eschete. “I mean, not long ago, one of my facilities and maintenance people said it would be so much easier if this space had a dedicated auditorium.”
Will the historic aspect be preserved?
While everything is on the table, it’s unlikely to make significant alterations to the iconic original facing with columns and the lions, Sawyer and Harris. It also is very likely to stay at its current site, as the influential Harris family donated that land specifically for the use of a public library way back when it was built in 1900. Beyond that, the library composition could change.
“Whether or not it will always remain the same size, the same configuration, I can’t speak to that,” said Eschete, emphasizing they’re early in the process still. “We have a fair bit of space in the building that doesn’t get regularly used.”
How much will it cost and who will pay for it?
The library hopes for taxpayer funds but also expects to fundraise for the project. A cost is currently unknown. We’ll have details in the coming months and years, as it’s a big project that could completely overhaul the library building.
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