Bartlett to celebrate library renovations Saturday
The Bartlett Public Library staff says patrons haven't wasted any time using the library's new space for teens, the expanded new materials section and an art room that were part of a renovation project largely completed in December 2015.
The new components are part of the library's renovation project, which began last summer and is complete except for some heating, ventilation and air-conditioning work that is expected to be wrapped up by spring.
Library staff members, patrons and state legislators will celebrate the library's new look Saturday, Jan. 16, with a celebration from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. that will include food from local restaurants, games and raffles. Curious George is also set to make an appearance.
The library, at 800 S. Bartlett Road, used reserves to pay for the renovations, which so far have totaled $1.1 million of the projected $1.5 million budget. The remaining budgeted money will go toward the HVAC work, though it's not clear exactly how much it will cost.
Bartlett Library Public Relations Specialist Roslyn Summerville says the renovations reflect responses from a survey taken more than two years ago of more than 1,900 library patrons. Having the opportunity to express creativity at the library was one of the survey's main findings.
"The survey found that patrons wanted more copies of new materials," Summerville said. "And we really wanted the teen age group to want to come to the library."
Summerville says the teen area used to be in a corner of the library. Now, the area is in the center of the library and includes new tables and chairs, and a video screen teens can use to play video games or work on school presentations.
While the renovation project didn't include adding any additional space, the new materials collection was moved to the front of the library and administrative offices were moved elsewhere.
"It really opens up the front for patrons to enjoy the space and our New! section," Summerville said.
New benches were installed and flowers were planted in the library's contemplation garden as well. Patrons can bring books into the garden and will also have access to the library's Wi-Fi outdoors.