Columbus Library Delays Linden Branch Opening Due to Extreme Cold

The grand opening was originally set for January 31 but has been postponed.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 5:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Columbus Metropolitan Library has announced that it will be delaying the grand opening of its new Linden Branch due to extreme cold weather from Winter Storm Fern. The opening was originally scheduled for January 31, but no new date has been set yet.

Why it matters

The new Linden Branch is a significant expansion from the previous library, more than doubling the size to 27,000 square feet. The delay in the grand opening means the community will have to wait longer to access the new, larger library facility.

The details

The Columbus Metropolitan Library CEO Lauren Hagan stated in a news release that they are "disappointed" to have to delay the grand opening, but they want to ensure the Linden community can have the celebration it deserves once it is safe to do so. The library system said it will provide a new grand opening date for the new branch soon.

  • The grand opening of the Linden Branch was originally scheduled for January 31, 2026.
  • The delay is due to extreme cold weather from Winter Storm Fern.

The players

Columbus Metropolitan Library

The public library system serving the Columbus, Ohio metropolitan area.

Lauren Hagan

The CEO of the Columbus Metropolitan Library.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We are disappointed to share that we need to delay Saturday's grand opening of our new Linden Branch. We want the Linden community to have the celebration it deserves, so we'll be working hard to make that happen as soon as we safely can.”

— Lauren Hagan, CEO, Columbus Metropolitan Library (dispatch.com)

What’s next

The Columbus Metropolitan Library said it will provide a new grand opening date for the new Linden Branch soon.

The takeaway

The delay in the grand opening of the expanded Linden Branch library is an unfortunate setback for the community, but the library system is committed to rescheduling the celebration as soon as it is safe to do so in the wake of the extreme winter weather.