Skip to content
  1. Home
  2. Community

McKinney Reveals County's First Public Planetarium: Roy And Helen Hall Memorial Library Revamped

Construction is slated to begin in May 2025
Matilda Preisendorf
conceptual_library_3
Front of library rendering Photo: City of McKinney

The city of McKinney recently announced the reimagining of the Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Library, a project aimed at creating a vibrant community hub and gateway to downtown McKinney. But wait, there’s more. 

Not only will the library see major improvements, but it will also house the county’s first planetarium.

Why McKinney Needs The New Community Space

conceptual_renderings_mckinney_public_library_1
An upgraded library for all ages. Photo: City of McKinney | Rendering

After over 20 years of service, the library has surpassed the capacity of its original design. A comprehensive renovation will address the community's evolving needs and ensure the library remains a vital resource for the next two decades. On June 4, 2024, the McKinney City Council unanimously approved a $1.2 million budget amendment and resolution to fund the design phase of the Roy & Helen Hall Library Reimagining project.

“Our goal is to create a future-ready library that extends the downtown experience, provides a new everyday destination and serves as a space for education, inspiration and community connection,” said Director of the McKinney Public Libraries Spencer Smith in an official statement.

Architectural firm 720 Design will lead the design and construction of the renovation. Construction is slated to begin in May.

New Exhibits Will Make The Library Better Than Ever

conceptual_renderings_mckinney_public_library_9
Planetarium entrance. Photo: City of McKinney | Rendering

The library redesign aims to transform the space into a vibrant community hub and a gateway to downtown McKinney, designed to be future-ready. This renovation will enhance the downtown experience, establish a new everyday destination and, most importantly, create a library equipped to serve the next generation.

The redesign will address long-standing layout challenges, improve technology and expand public meeting and study spaces. 

Planned features include:  

  • Interactive exhibits: 2,500 square feet of space for rotating and interactive displays. 
  • Youth and teen spaces: Dedicated areas tailored to younger audiences. 
  • Local history room: A space preserving and showcasing McKinney’s rich history. 
  • Quiet wing: A retreat for focused study or reading. 
  • Amenities: Nine study rooms, additional restrooms, including family facilities and two elevators for improved accessibility. 
  • Planetarium: A 26-foot-diameter full-dome planetarium with seating for 55. 

“The planetarium is a giant step forward for the Roy and Helen Hall Memorial Library, making it the first public planetarium in Collin County,” Smith said. “This truly offers a unique educational opportunity. Coupled with the space for rotating and interactive exhibits, we are creating an environment where residents of all ages can engage with learning in new and exciting ways.”

Don't miss anything Local. Sign up for our free newsletter.