A groundbreaking took place Monday for the Deschutes Public Library system’s Central Library at Stevens Ranch.

The 9.37-acre parcel, located at the corner of SE 27th Street and Wilderness Way, will hold a 100,000-square-foot library. It will nearly double the size of the Deschutes Public Library collection.

Construction will continue through 2026, with a grand opening in mid-to-late 2026, said Library Director Todd Dunkelberg.

The parcel for the library was previously owned by the state of Oregon, and is part of the Stevens Ranch development. New housing developments, schools and parks are planned in the surrounding area. It is near biking and walking paths that connect to the Deschutes River Trail.

The Stevens Ranch library was part of a $195 million bond passed by voters in November 2020.

The La Pine and Sisters public libraries were remodeled as part of that bond, and opened last fall. A new Redmond Public Library is underway and expected to open in December. The Sunriver Public Library is being renovated and will reopen late this summer. The Downtown Bend Public Library will be remodeled after the Stevens Ranch library opens in 2026.