A human book chain was formed to transfer materials Dec. 10 between the Hancock Branch of the Twin Lake Library and the Mary Vinson Memorial Library to prepare for its grand reopening.
The Mary Vinson Memorial Library was closed Feb. 28 for renovations.
The facility was considered out of date and no longer “effectively using the space,” according to Middle Georgia Regional Library Director Jennifer Lautzenheiser.
“Examples of why we made this decision included people working out of closets, meandering staff hallways, large administrative workrooms as a legacy of the time that the building was the administrative headquarters for a single county library system, and much more,” said Lautzenheiser. “The building had some system upgrades, safety upgrades, and reorganization of space, which makes more use of the facility footprint.” Lautzenheiser stated 150 individuals participated in the human book chain to move books back into the renovated library from the Hancock Branch, where services were available during the closure.
“Baldwin County Libraries enjoy strong patron support. The patrons have been incredibly patient with the smaller temporary space,” said Lautzenheiser. “We believe they are as excited as we are to be moving into the new space, so we wanted to include them in this celebration.”
The new Mary Vinson Memorial Library has a complete change of orientation. Patrons will now enter directly from the parking lot. The Local History Room was moved downstairs and the Young Adult collection was moved upstairs for easier accessibility.
“It allows us to highlight some of the building's strengths. For example, the old Local History Room was rimmed with bookshelves as is needed for that type of research.
By moving this downstairs, it's more easily accessible to people near the front door,” explained Lautzenheiser.
The upstairs of the new building has no covered windows bringing in more natural light and has been rearranged for new additions to the library and more space for youth to read. A meeting room was also added, furnished by Friends of the Library, as well as a study room.
“We are very pleased with the renovation and thankful for the local city, county, and state support.
We feel this new library better meets the needs of the current community,” said Lautzenheiser.
The Mary Vinson Memorial Library is planned to be opened in January with a grand opening date to be announced. The Hancock location will return to providing a space for “young adults to engage in learning and social connection during the peak young adult hours.”
Scan the QR code to view the book chain.