The newly renovated Central Arkansas Library System’s (CALS) Main Library has reopened in downtown Little Rock, offering six floors of inclusive, modern amenities designed to serve the city’s diverse population. This $31 million transformation reimagines the library as a vibrant public space that supports education, creativity and civic engagement.

On the first floor, visitors are greeted by a spacious Children’s Center, creating a welcoming environment for families. It also features a new location of Boulevard Bread Company, offering coffee, sandwiches, soups and more. The second floor features a Teen Center and reservable study rooms, while the third and fourth floors offer meeting spaces and podcast studios for collaboration and content creation. Books are available throughout the first four floors, alongside a print center for public use.

A standout feature is the rooftop terrace on the sixth floor, with covered and uncovered seating and stunning views of downtown. The library also introduces innovative computer stations with adjacent baby areas, allowing caregivers to work while children play safely nearby.

As a free public resource, the Main Library provides equitable access to technology, learning and cultural programming. It supports students, entrepreneurs, job seekers and families, bridging gaps in digital literacy and economic opportunity. Its integration with Library Square and nearby institutions like the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts further strengthens downtown revitalization.