The Allapattah Branch Library will close to the public on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 202 and reopen in March at a new location.
Miami-Dade Library System
The Allapattah Branch Library will close on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, as construction begins on a new affordable and workforce housing development that will include a modern replacement library.
The branch, located at 1799 NW 35 St., is shutting down as part of the Dulce Vida Apartments project, led by Coral Rock Development Group. Construction is expected to take about 19 months.
Once completed, the new Allapattah Branch Library will open on the ground floor of the Dulce Vida Apartments and will be significantly larger and more modern than the current facility.
The new branch will span approximately 8,500 square feet, up from the existing 5,200, and will feature expanded community and learning spaces.
Back in 2021, students from Miami Jackson Senior High in Allapattah protested the project when initial plans sought to move the library branch to a new location.
The students petitioned the city of Miami to delay the project until a temporary library could be built nearby, and that the new development must have a library component.
Now, planned upgrades include a multipurpose community meeting room with audio-visual technology, co-working and study areas, dedicated reading rooms for adults, young adults and children, and a children’s storytime area.
The new library will also offer new public computers, high-speed Wi-Fi, digital information screens, additional electrical outlets and USB charging ports throughout the space.
To minimize disruption, Miami-Dade officials say a temporary Allapattah Branch Library is expected to open nearby in March 2026.
In the meantime, patrons are encouraged by Miami-Dade to visit nearby public library system locations, including the Culmer/Overtown Branch, Model City Branch and Edison Center Branch.
Residents can also continue to access library services online, including eBooks, audiobooks, digital magazines, newspapers and research databases.
More information about library services and updates on the temporary location can be found on the Miami-Dade Public Library System website or by contacting customer service.
Luisa Yanez
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