By Monty Siekerman
Let’s take a walk through the new addition and complete remodeling of the Ada Public Library to see what’s new prior to Saturday’s grand reopening. Ribbon cutting begins at 10:30 a.m. The celebration continues until 1:30 p.m. All are invited.
A large parking lot was constructed on the north side of the library, in an area once housing a large, brick Masonic building. Years ago the library purchased the Masonic building and lot. The area was rezoned educational nine years ago. Now it’s part and parcel of the library. The parking lot will be much more convenient and safer for patrons compared to the limited parking along Main Street.
Approaching the new addition, one sees landscaping and wide doors welcoming patrons. Once inside, there is a 900 sq. ft. meeting room with tables, chairs, a white board, and a place from which to serve refreshments. To the left is a large office area.
Along the hall is a display titled New Books and a convenient Drop Off Box. The outside Drop Off Box along the alley remains, as well.
As one enters the area built in 1953, patrons will see an entirely new look. Walls painted, as some describe it “cheerful” or “bright,” in solid colors of either purple, green, blue, gray, even chartreuse. There is new carpeting throughout, new ceiling panels, and plenty of plug-ins near seating for patrons’ electronic devices. The library is better lit with all new fixtures.
The conveniently-located circulation desk is lower, something young book-lovers will appreciate. The Adult Room is in this area with more seating and shelving for books. Toward the west door, used for years as the main entrance, is the reading room, which looks much as it was except some historical material has been placed there on shelves and in drawers.
Back to the circulation desk and on east is the Youth Area, which has been expanded to hold more books and has more seating. At the far east of the building is the Children’s Area with a LEGO wall, storytime steps, expanded shelving, and additional seating and tables.
The restrooms have been totally refurbished, as well.
Much of the funds for Ada’s new modern library come from gifts received over the years and from interest on those donations. No tax money was used. Last June, the board accepted a bid of $881,700 from Studer-Obringer Construction. Work began last July.
Full time employees include Rhett Grant, director, and Natalie Walton, youth services director. Part time employees are Karin Alba, Darlene Bowers, Preema D’Souza, Karen Garver, Max Gauthier and Fiscal Officer Nancy Stauffer.
Board members are President Connie Fleming, Vice President Melissa Mancuso, Secretary Jamie Wills and Scott Allison, Diane Simon, Erin Chrissobolis and Steve Johnson.
