Photos courtesy of Columbus Metropolitan Library
Following a 16-month renovation process, the Columbus Metropolitan Library is now a little over two months into its new main branch, and it continues to be a major destination in central Ohio.
Among the bright spots over the last couple of months: From Aug. 13-19, the library hosted the annual World Library and Information Congress of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions, bringing the event back to the U.S. for the first time since 2001.
Central to the renovation was the principle of turning the library into a space focused on connections, rather than merely the storage of books, and key to that principle is attention to young minds. To that end, the children’s section has undergone major additions, including centralized storytime areas, a two-sided aquarium, an area for children transitioning to school, a two-story tween space and even a miniature entrance for shorter patrons.
“We’ve created an entire terrarium so you can see children and the activities that are going on,” says library CEO Patrick Losinski.
Major highlights of the new and improved main library include:
- An all-new plaza east of the building, including outdoor seating, sculptures and a performance space;
- A massive window wall on the east side, overlooking the plaza;
- An expanded atrium 33 percent larger than its predecessor;
- Seven public meeting rooms, up from three, all with cutting-edge technology; and
- A revamped teen area, including a gaming corner and a collaboration couch.
Garth Bishop is managing editor. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.
The Columbus Metropolitan Library isn’t the only local library system with a shiny new main facility.
Southwest Public Libraries opens the doors of its relocated and renovated Grove City Library Sept. 25 in the heart of Grove City. The new space features expanded program offerings, quiet study rooms and – like the new Columbus library – more windows and natural light.
