Ela library's renovations are now complete

Celebrate the completion of Ela Area Public Library's renovation from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at the library, 275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich.

Festivities kick off with an official ribbon cutting at 2 p.m. followed by an afternoon of entertainment and activities. Bubbleman Geoff Akins and a professional glitter tattoo artist will be on hand to entertain.

Library staff will provide equipment demos in Forge, the library's new makerspace, and help create photo souvenirs in the Digital Media Lab. Enjoy a free Culver's sundae while exploring some of the new and improved spaces in the library.

"We are thrilled to introduce our redesigned library," Executive Director Matt Womack said. "Our renovated areas provide the kinds of amenities that meet the needs of modern life and deliver experiences that will enrich and delight our visitors."

Renovations started in the fall of 2014 and upgraded many areas of the library's infrastructure. From flexible furniture to improved lighting, the project addressed a new vision for the way people live, work and play.

Significant improvements were made to the Children's Department, Teen Area and second floor. An addition of a makerspace, Forge, was a significant part of the project and one of the more exciting innovations included in the six-month redesign. The area includes a 3-D printer, sewing machine, construction kits, and other equipment for crafting and fabrication.

"Forge is one of the first things people see when they enter the building," Womack said. "This new space is a perfect lab environment for collaboration and hands-on learning."

The completion of the renovation allows Ela Library to address a number of goals in the Strategic Plan and aims to reinvent what a public library can aspire to be.

"We welcome people to experience the new Ela Library," said Womack.

For more information about the renovation and Grand Reopening Celebration, visit www.eapl.org or call (847) 438-3433.