After a brief hiatus, the St. Rose branch of the St. Charles Parish library system is open once again – with a bit of a new look.
The library was closed for approximately five weeks from Feb. 3 to March 10 as the building underwent renovations. The final result was a facelift for the branch, which opened 22 years ago.
“We’re right at that anniversary,” said St. Charles Parish Library assistant director Amy Duke. “We opened in March of 2003 … the building was looking pretty shabby after all that time and use. We’d been talking about (making upgrades) for a few years and things came together to get that done this year.”
Among the upgrades to the branch are new carpet, a fresh coat of paint, UV tinting on windows and the removal of blinds – allowing for a more well-lit reading area – and a more spacious open area for patrons. The branch also has added a water bottle filling station – an amenity that is planned to be added to the other buildings in the library system – with vending machines also planned as additions.
Duke said feedback has been positive since reopening.
“It’s what we hoped to hear – that it feels more contemporary, spacious and friendly,” said Duke. “We’ve been getting a lot of really positive comments.”
Other additions and changes are planned for upcoming weeks, including additional furniture, additional family seating going into the children’s area, updated computer terminals and an activity table for children – “a place where kids can be active and creative in building things,” said Duke.
Duke said the removal of the blinds from the library’s windows has made a notable difference.
“The windows let a lot of light in, and previously they would let so much sun and UV light in that it created a lot of heat in the building, and it was damaging to books,” Duke said. “We had to keep those blinds closed. Taking those off and giving a tint of UV coating on the glass has made it a better place for patrons and staff.”
As always, the library features plenty of programs for all ages to enjoy.
“Teen Time: Anime Afternoon” for anime fans is set for 4 p.m. today (March 20). On Friday (March 21) Storytime is set for 10:30 a.m. At 6 p.m. Monday will be Teddy Bear Bingo. For adults, March 29 brings Coffee and Crafts beginning at 11 a.m.
Other notables in coming weeks include Xbox, mystery club and book club events.
