Renovations set for 95th Street Library

Renovations for Naperville's 95th Street Library are expected to be in full swing by April, with improvements to include the installation of new furniture and flooring as well as a recording studio, green screen room and teen space with a gaming center.

Other improvements included in the $2.7 million project will feature more small rooms for studying, increased electrical outlets and dedicated quiet zones, with the first floor designated as a social zone and second floor being a quiet zone.

"The teen space will hopefully draw after-school teens to that area and help to reduce the noise and commotion on the second floor," said Karen Dunford, 95th Street Library's manager.

The last time the 13-year-old building underwent improvements was in 2009.

"95th Street Library is very heavily used, especially during the school year. It's also very busy on weekends," Executive Director Julie Rothenfluh said. "Thanks to the available parking, many of our larger programs are planned for 95th Street Library. There is also heavy community use of the room rental spaces.

"While it is the newest of our buildings, the heavy use is evident in the condition of the carpeting, tables and chairs. We will be adding access to electricity, improving lighting and rearranging collections for optimal seating."

At the end of March, electrical work is expected to begin and the computer lab will be temporarily relocated to the Idea Lab. As collections and shelving are being shifted, customers are encouraged to ask library staff members for assistance when locating material.

The 95th Street Library renovation project, which is expected to wrap up in the fall, is on the heels of last year's extensive renovation project at Nichols Library and then Naper Blvd. Library's renovations completed in 2015.