BIG NEWS!  There will be $26 million in Library General Obligation (GO) Bonds on the November 3, 2026 ballot to fund the renovation and expansion of Branigan Library. (Early voting begins October 6).
Scroll down to learn more! 

The Friends of the Thomas Branigan Memorial Library is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help the public library in Las Cruces, NM serve the community by providing funding, advocacy, programming services and materials.

2026 Library GO Bonds 

Here are a few of the planned changes:

• Approximately 20,000 additional square feet

• New mixed-use atrium lobby with cafe and breakout areas

• Flexible, multi-function public spaces

• Complete ADA access throughout

• Expanded Children’s area for interactive learning to prepare youngsters for school

• New Teen space with gaming and computer stations

• New Roadrunner Room with 200-person capacity can be converted to two spaces (80- and 120- person capacity)

• Ten new small group meeting rooms

• Soundproof audio and video Recording Studio

• Dedicated space for community Tierra Sagrada Seed Library

• Friends of TBM Library bookstore near the new cafe

• New third-floor with meeting room and demonstration kitchen

• Outdoor space with views of the Organ Mountains

• Improved administrative spaces for better efficiency and effectiveness

Here are some answers to FAQs:

• Will my taxes go up if the GO Bonds pass? No. The City has bonding capacity for this project without the need for any additional taxes.

• How long will the construction take? 18 – 24 months after the bonds have been sold, which is expected to happen in March 2027.

• Will the library be closed that whole time? No. Library services will be available at a temporary location during most of the project, except during move out and move-back-in phases. Also, the library branches at Munson and Sage Cafe Senior Centers will be open.

• Why not build a new branch instead? Time and money. The Library Master Plan includes future branches. However, securing the land, building an entirely new library, and including the systems required for branch deliveries would take much longer and cost far more than expanding Branigan Library first.

• Shouldn’t this money be going to public safety? It is – research shows Libraries provide many services that enhance community wellbeing and public safety. In particular, providing arts and cultural activities to adolescents has been shown to reduce antisocial and criminalized behavior, which may also reduce risks faced by our police officers.
• Can the City afford to operate an expanded library? We’re counting on it! The design includes a number of elements that will reduce operating costs due to better sight lines, more natural light, and solar power generation. In addition to the operating budget provided by the City, the Friends of TBML will be raising money for Library programs and services and with our new bookstore!

Click here to see City of Las Cruces GO Bond Information, including the architect’s animated video of what Branigan Library will look like after the renovation and expansion project is completed.

More questions?

• Call the Las Cruces Communications Office: 575-541-2200
• Email us at TBMLFriends@gmail.com and follow us for more updates on Facebook @tbmlibraryfriends 

 

You may email us at:  TBMLFriends (at sign) gmail (dot) com.

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