Cossitt Library – West Wing Renovation
The City of Memphis is reaching out to Memphians of all walks of life to learn about their vision for the west wing of the historical Cossitt Library. What would you like to see?
About this Project
This redevelopment project will restore and repurpose the back wing of the Cossitt Library and determine permanent use of the dilapidated space.
- Reimagine, Restore, Reuse, Repurpose
- Generate Revenue
- Promote Economic Development
History of Cossitt Library
Project Area
- Approximately 24,880 square feet
- Includes 3 floors and rooftop
- 2022 – Sprinkler system piping assessed and updated, wall heaters added, lead and asbestos removal, and minor wall repairs completed.
Interior area of the Cossitt West Wing.
Interior area of the Cossitt West Wing.
Interior area of the Cossitt West Wing.
Interior area of the Cossitt West Wing.
Interior area of the Cossitt West Wing.
Rooftop of the West Wing.
Rooftop of the West Wing.
Rooftop of the West Wing.
Exterior grounds around the West Wing.
Exterior grounds around the West Wing.
Exterior area of the Cossitt West Wing. Image from DIG Memphis Digital Archives.
Exterior area of the Cossitt West Wing. Image from DIG Memphis Digital Archives.
Historic photo showing the West Wing to the right behind the cobble stones. Image from DIG Memphis Digital Archives.
Historic photo showing the West Wing behind the original Cossitt Library building. Image from DIG Memphis Digital Archives.
Historic photo showing the West Wing behind the construction area of the existing Cossitt Library building. Image from DIG Memphis Digital Archives.
More Photos of Old Cossitt
Our Vision
- Renovate all floors on back wing of library.
- Cultural and artistic programming that pulls diverse groups to the location.
- Activate roof top space.
- Connect past to present and future.
- State of the art multifaceted event venue.
- Promote local businesses and entrepreneurship.
Our Next Steps
- Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the project area.
- Financials: Cost, Funding Sources, Economic Analysis.
- Clean-Up & Stabilize Site.
- Engage community via temporary activations and current programming.
