The Loop | Moorhead Public Library
Welcome to the New Community Center Library - The Loop!
“A new Community Center Library will serve as the cornerstone of downtown redevelopment and give our residents a gathering place and information space for generations to come.”
— Moorhead Mayor Shelly Carlson
A Cornerstone for Our Community
Located on the prominent intersection of 5 St and Center Ave at 450 Center Ave, The Loop, designed by The Miller Hull Partnership in collaboration with JLG Architects, is a vibrant, 21st-century facility that includes a library, indoor playspace for youth and more, blending comfort, creativity, and connection.
Features & Amenities
Essentia Health Walking Loop
Experience the unique “warm wood hug” design concept with a 1/8-mile walking loop that offers scenic views of downtown Moorhead and the Red River. The sculptural wood railing and natural light create a serene environment for movement and reflection. The walking loop is sponsored by Essentia Health.
Spark Center for Entrepreneurship
The Spark Center for Entrepreneurship empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with:
- Free co-working spaces
- Fireside chats with founders
- A supportive ecosystem of local entrepreneurs
- Practical education led by experts to turn ideas into action
- Accessible and relationship-driven, the Spark Center for Entrepreneurship is your launchpad for innovation.
The Spark Center is supported by the Northern Lights Library Network and the Small Business Association. Naming rights still available.
Children’s Library & Play Space
A bright, inviting second-floor space designed for families:
- Eye-level shelves for kids
- Cozy reading nooks
- Activity corner for hands-on fun
The play area includes platform climbers, interactive wall panels, and a toddler zone, making it a free and welcoming destination for all children.
The Children's Library is sponsored by the The Hinsz and Weigum Families.
Community Spaces
- Presentation Hall: Equipped for live and virtual events. Sponsored by Visit Fargo-Moorhead.
- Fireside Commons: Relaxed seating for reading and small gatherings.
- Community Loft: Social area with tables and games, adjacent to the walking loop and playground. Sponsored by D&M Industries, Inc.
Sustainability in Design
The Loop incorporates environmentally responsible design strategies to create a healthy, efficient civic space that will serve Moorhead for generations. The project is targeting LEED Silver certification and is designed as an all-electric building with infrastructure ready for full photovoltaic and battery storage integration, an outcome of a project-based resilience workshop.
Regionally sourced wood is used throughout, including the dowel-laminated mass timber roof structure and wood guardrail system, helping reduce embodied carbon. The building also features a high-performance envelope with triple-pane glazing and low-flow fixtures to reduce water use. A materials approach prioritizes healthier products and avoids prevalent chemicals of concern to support improved indoor air quality.
Why It Matters
This project is more than a library, it’s a focal point for downtown redevelopment, a gathering space for all ages, and a resource for lifelong learning and entrepreneurship.
Make An Impact
Interested in seeing how you can make an impact?