The Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library is undergoing renovations that started on May 4 and will re-open at 9 a.m. on May 13.
The Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library is undergoing renovations that started on May 4 and will re-open at 9 a.m. on May 13.
The renovations will include new carpet on the first floor, new furniture that allows patrons to connect to electronic devices, a new reference desk and a check out desk that will be handicap accessible.
“Our building hasn’t been renovated in 16 years,” Executive Director Douglas Dotterer said. “These improvements will make the library more accessible to patrons with disabilities and we also have a staff member who is physically challenged.”
Dotterer said the renovations come as part of a larger three-year plan to make the library “technologically proficient” to better serve the community.
The funding for the project comes from within the library’s budget, and Dotterer said they would be utilizing state funding contracts for the work. Previous renovations such as the children’s room and computer lab have come from private donors and grants.
He said the goal of the upgrades is to be proactive.
“We looked at operations carefully, and we found where we needed to maintain the building,” he said. “If you don’t do that over the years, you won’t be able to maintain it properly and costs will increase.”
Dotterer noted that the improvements would make the library more of a destination spot. A new Wi-Fi system was put in place a few months ago and the children’s story room held its grand opening on April 20.
The children’s room, Spike’s Place, is named after the Asian Pond Turtle that lives in an aquarium at the library. The room has a light-up star ceiling, painted murals, and lily pad seating for the children. Ann Malthaner, marketing and public relations manager, said the room took nine months of planning.
“It’s just so bright and friendly and quite a change from before,” Malthaner said.
A grant from the Margaret Clark Morgan Foundation enabled Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library to acquire an electronic touch screen. Dotterer said patrons with eye issues have given positive feedback to the improvements.
“This new touch screen projects things with much higher quality, and even my dad who has glaucoma can take computer classes here. He wasn’t able to see the screen before,” Malthaner said.
Working to make the library’s renovations has been a collaborative effort involving the community. Dotterer said the goals are to complete the current main floor project within this year and then to work on finishing up the children’s floor next year.
Malthaner said they have tried to stay ahead of the times while minimizing inconveniences to the patrons. She also said that patrons seem to be very excited about renovations and the programs offered.
“The benefits far outweigh the inconvenience of shutting down,” she said. “In order to serve the people, we have to make these changes to serve the public better. Now’s the time.”
According to the Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library’s website, Internet service will not be available on May 4. The book drop will close during the renovation, but no fines will be assessed during the week.
Max Grubb, professor of electronic media at Kent State University, said he’s been frequenting the Stow library since 2004 when his family moved back to Northeast Ohio.
“I know the areas need to be brought up to date so the areas don’t deteriorate anymore,” Grubb said. “I think it’s important to support the library and keep them updated. To me the library is one of the hearts of the community.”
