New Central Library in Bend draws 63,000 visitors in first month

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The new Central Library in east Bend is drawing record crowds just weeks after opening.

In its first 30 days, the library welcomed more than 63,000 visitors, with patrons checking out over 80,000 items. By comparison, all Central Oregon libraries combined saw about 52,000 visitors in May 2025.

The surge in interest is also bringing in new users. More than 1,800 people signed up for a library card for the first time during the library’s first month. That's well above the system’s typical monthly average.

“Usually we do about 1,200 new cards a month across all of our libraries, and we’ve definitely seen an increase,” said Library Director Todd Dunkelberg. “I was just talking to someone the other day, she was in her 70s and getting her first library card since she was ten years old.”

Inside the building, activity is constant. The second floor play area is frequently filled with children, while the on-site Thump Coffee shop has quickly become one of the busiest locations for the local business.

“It’s been amazing. We have been so busy nonstop,” said Grace Marguth, café lead at Thump Coffee. “The parking lots are always full, and we always have a line. It’s been great.”

Library leaders say the strong turnout reflects excitement around the new space and expanded services.

A grand opening celebration is scheduled for August 15, featuring live music, food, and appearances by both the Oregon and U.S. Poets Laureate.