Fort Worth Architecture
The old YWCA building, which has served the city so well over the course of almost 100 years, will soon have a new purpose.
The city is planning to buy the property at 512 W. Fourth St. to serve as the permanent new location of the downtown library.
The site is just a short golf shot from the old site, which the city sold to developers in 2023.
The City Council will vote on the appropriation at its Aug. 13 meeting, according to a press release. Funds for the purchase will come from the proceeds of the sale of the former library on Third Street.
The city didn’t disclose the purchase price but said in addition to that, the building will require renovations at a cost of roughly $6.5 million.
“The new Fort Worth Downtown Library will enrich the downtown cultural landscape and serve as a vibrant hub for learning, innovation and community engagement,” said District 9 Councilmember Elizabeth Beck. “This historic building holds a special place in the hearts of Fort Worth residents and is a testament to Fort Worth’s dedication to preserving our city’s history while advancing our future to meet the evolving needs of our diverse community.”
A temporary library has been located at 200 Texas St. It will continue to operate until the new library is ready.
The Center for Transforming Lives currently operates out of the building, but the nonprofit will soon move to a new, larger facility on Riverside Drive at the end of the year. Renovations for the library could begin in early next year.
The YWCA building was constructed by Thos. S. Byrne in 1928 as an Elk’s Club Lodge. It was designed by Wyatt Hedrick. It is listed in the Texas and National Registers of Historic Places.
The style is slightly Georgian Revival featuring a front portico, nonfunctional balconies, and wrought iron detailing, according to architect John Roberts, who runs fortwortharchitecture.com.
The ornate interior features a ballroom and grand lobby.
An addition to the building was made in 1999 to the back of the building. Komatsu & Associates of Fort Worth did the architectural work on that.
“When we bring a library into any neighborhood it is vitally important to hear from the residents what they need and want in their community,” said Midori Clark, the city’s library director, in a statement. “Since arriving in Fort Worth in January I have heard loud and clear from the community they want a downtown library, and we will find ways to continue to engage with residents about how this new location is developed.”
Those interested in receiving updates on the progress of the new library can sign up for email notifications.
“Libraries are an investment in community vitality and cultural infrastructure,” Clark said. “We’re excited for this new location to bring value to the downtown landscape and residents.”