To expand and improve upon its services, the Windham Public Library will begin renovations in the very near future, with an expected start date in early December.
“This is a project the library staff has been working on for a few years,” stated Library Director, Jen Alvino. “The changes will better meet the needs of our growing community.”
As the project begins and continues throughout the winter, the changes that will better serve library patrons and community members will come with some growing pains. Although the library will remain open throughout most of the reconstruction and some weekly programs will continue, there will be a few modifications to programming, with an expected closure from time to time, of no more than a couple of days at a time.
Closure at the beginning of the project is expected as the movers relocate items and furniture into a storage trailer and rearrange the remaining collection. Other closing days may occur and is to be expected as well. “The closures will be limited but necessary for safety and preparation of the space,” Alvino said.
“Some programs will continue,” Alvino continued. “We will find either different spaces in the library or off-site locations, like the Town Hall Conference Room or Windham Hill UCC. Our Calendar of Events on our website is the best place to check for an updated location.”
Alvino also stated that event updates and renovation information will be posted their Facebook page as well as the Town of Windham Calendar of Events.
Seating and study space will be limited throughout the construction project. “The renovation is going to be completed in three stages so the space available will change throughout the process,” Alvino began. “I anticipate very limited seating and study space but will make as much available as I can. This will depend both on the stage of the project and the final numbers on the parts of the collection that will be available for check out.”
As for the reading material and other items that can be checked out, Alvino explained that only a portion of library’s collection will be available for check out. However, items can still be ordered from other libraries so patrons should still be able to get the book or item of their choice.
Although the library services and study spaces may be limited for a short time, Alvino stated that it will all be worth it upon completion.
“There are so many exciting changes. Our two circulation desks will now be one desk on the first floor of the library across from the community meeting room. The children’s room will have new carpet, a new infant literacy space, and will be glassed in to separate it from the new circulation area. New carpet, fresh paint, shelving, and furniture will be found throughout the library. Also included are new built-in window study tables in the adult collection as well as two new study rooms, a quiet reading/computer room and an expanded teen space. I think we are really making great use of the rearranged space for the services that the community is seeking from us right now and addressing future growth as well.”
The expected completion of the project is late February. Once the renovations are finished, Alvino and her staff will host an event to welcome the community, introducing the new look and features offered. Until then, pictures and detailed updates will be posted on their website and Facebook page.
To keep abreast of the renovations updates, go to the Windham Public Library’s website at www.windham.lib.me.us
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