Construction is underway on a new public library in Bladensburg that will be three times the size of the old one.

Located at 4820 Annapolis Rd., the 22,000-square-foot building will have meeting and study spaces, a computer lab and makerspace and a small cafe when it opens.

The old library, which has already been demolished, was built in 1925 and previously served as an elementary school and a media center for the board of education.

Designed by Gant Brunnett Architects, the new building will be the first Prince George’s library that is certified LEED Silver, thanks to rooftop solar panels, electric-car charging stations and energy efficient HVAC and lighting.

Other features include a two-sided fireplace, a private “comfort room” for mothers who are breastfeeding and a children’s room with a nautical theme, including an authentic ship’s wheel, dinghy-shaped reading nooks and a wooden deck.

The exterior will feature two giant glass curtain walls that will bring in exterior light.

The new Bladensburg library comes as the system is finishing up work on a new Hyattsville library that will have similar amenities and is slated to open before the new year.

During construction, the Bladensburg library will be temporarily located at 6527 Annapolis Rd. in the Capitol Corner Shopping Center.

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