The main downtown branch of Tacoma Public Library is closed while it’s being upgraded to improve safety, accessibility, and efficiency for the public.

Upgrades are underway for the building attached to the Carnegie building, last remodeled in 1990); the Olympic and other meeting rooms; and the Handforth Gallery in the original 1903 Carnegie Library. Among the changes is a transformation of the second floor into programming space for non-profit organizations.

Work began in September and is scheduled to be done in time for a reopening this spring.

Officials said the project is addressing concerns such as a lack of parking and safety concerns for library visitors. The work is being paid for through a combination of city of Tacoma, state and federal sources.

Tacoma Public Library has five other branches.