Brodie Library is set for a lengthy closure for renovations.
The work is getting underway on June 16 and is expected to be completed in September.
Many of the changes at the library are focused on improving safety.
During the closure, new security staff will be hired, and a new floor plan will be implemented to improve sight lines.
“A temporary closure at Brodie has been part of the restructuring plans we’ve been making for the Library system from the start,” said Library CEO Richard Togman. “However, in light of the increasing and escalating security incidents at the branch, we’re adjusting our schedule to prioritize the Brodie changes.”
Other changes include moving most of the book collection to the main floor and creating a research department on the lower level.
The Friends of the Library Used Bookstore is also moving from Brodie to Waverly Library during the closure.
“We’d initially estimated that the changes at Brodie were going to take us upwards of half a year to implement,” explained Togman. “But by closing now, we’re sparing ourselves months of stepping around renovations and blocking off different areas to the public.”
“The physical changes can happen all at once, and more quickly. At the same time, this gives our staff some relief from what’s been becoming, for some, untenable work conditions.”
The staff at Brodie will continue to work during the closure, helping reorganize the branch’s collection and undergoing new safety training.
They will also continue to fulfill hold requests for pickup at other branches, ensuring that the Brodie collection remains accessible to patrons.
The Research Department will be accessible through email.
