Long-planned work centered on the upgrading of the popular Thomas Branigan Memorial Library, located at 200 E. Picacho Avenue, may finally get a green light, depending upon the results of a bond proposal in next week’s elections.
As planned, the General Obligation Bond would provide up to $26 million to build new book and study space, while also funding the construction of a 20,000-square-foot extension to the existing 44,000-square-foot structure.
Built in 1979 and designed by the Albuquerque-based Dean and Hunt Association, the library is named in honor of Civil War veteran Thomas Branigan.
Since its opening, the structure has been subject to only two renovations.
Information submitted to voters providing details of the hoped-for renovation say that it will also include more community space and enhance security, with an overall effort to make the structure more Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant.
It is thought that it will take upwards of two years to complete all the planned renovations.
The need to update the library was specified in a city master plan document two years ago, even though funding for the project was not at that time available.
The Branigan Library, known locally as just the “Branigan,” is one of three libraries operated by the city.
October 29, 2026
By Garry Boulard
Vintage postcard of Las Cruces
