Published March 4, 2026
BY JUNE EMERSON
With more than $15 million already raised and architectural plans taking shape, the Centennial Restoration for Carmel’s historic Harrison Memorial Library has moved forward from aspiration to action.
In the heart of downtown Carmel, this library has served the public for almost a century, standing as a symbol of Carmel’s artistic and intellectual roots. This is the first comprehensive restoration of the 7,300 square foot building since its construction in 1928 by local builder Michael J. Murphy, and architect Bernard Maybeck.
The remodel is being fully funded through a capital campaign led by the Carmel Public Library Foundation. A $5 million donation by a CPLF board member tipped the fountain over for 34 more major gifts ranging from $10,000 to $5 million.
The historical Harrison Memorial Library prepares for a once-in-a-century restoration showcasing community collaboration and generosity. Courtesy of HARRISON MEMORIAL LIBRARY
“Restoring the Harrison Library isn’t just about fixing a building,” said Carmel Mayor Dale Byrne. “It’s about honoring the stories that shaped Carmel and ensuring our students have a beautiful place to write their own.”
The project officially began in early July when the Carmel City Council approved the Santa Monica-based Moore Ruble Yudell Architects, a nationally recognized organization with many large restoration projects under their portfolio, to undertake the centennial restoration. Scheduled for completion in time for the library’s 100th anniversary in 2028, the restoration will upgrade urgent infrastructure needs while strategically enhancing the integrity of the building.
“These upgrades will ensure the library remains a functional and beautiful space for the community while incorporating enhancements to support the requirements of future library services,” said CPLF executive director Alexandra Fallon.
The interior of the library is being updated to conform to modern needs like ADA accessibility, while restoring the 100-year-old space. Courtesy of THE HARRISON MEMORIAL LIBRARY
So far Moore Ruble Yudell has held three well attended community workshops to start preparing design ideas. They are taking local sentiments into account by demonstrating the sensitivity to the library’s historic context while delivering major system upgrades without compromising the character of the building. Improvements include full Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility, life safety upgrades, technology modernization and mindful rejuvenation of the library’s iconic interiors.
“The Harrison Memorial Library has always been more than a building, it is a place where generations of Carmel residents have gathered to learn, reflect and connect,” said CPLF CEO Marci Meaux. “As we approach the library’s centennial, this restoration is about honoring its original beauty while ensuring it continues to serve our community for the next hundred years.”
As the campaign continues and design plans come into full frame, the restoration stands as a historical moment, rooted in community and hands-on collaboration. If all goes according to plan, when the doors reopen in 2028, the Harrison Memorial Library will celebrate a century of its history with a building restored for generations to come.
To contribute to the fundraising, donations can be submitted by contacting Alexandra Fallon directly at Afallon@carmelpubliclibraryfoundation.org, or mailed to P.O. Box 2042 Carmel, CA 93921.
