Written by Mackenzie Manley, Content Specialist, Downtown Main Library
On Friday, Sept. 26, at the end of the day, the Oakley Branch will close for renovations. The branch is expected to reopen in December 2025. In the meantime, holds will be directed to the Hyde Park Branch, or a customer’s location of choice.
Your Next Generation Library
The Oakley Branch’s renovations will include an expanded children’s area, a dedicated teen area, a quiet adult reading area, and an updated meeting room.
Elements to look forward to:
- Replacing the end of lifecycle 35+ year old mechanical and electrical systems
- New finishes throughout
- New furniture throughout
- Refreshed staff space
Edith Gillispie, branch manager, said she is looking forward to the branch having a refreshed space for the community.
“I’m excited that we have a date, can start to plan, and look forward to our project,” said Edith.
Some events will continue, including Monday Night Mysteries, a book club that meets on the first Monday of every month, and the Oakley Adult Book Club, which meets on the third Monday of every month. Both clubs will meet at the Pleasant Ridge Branch at 6:45 p.m. during Oakley’s closure.
Toddler Storytime will continue to be held every Monday at 10:30 a.m. while Library Babies will be on the second Thursday of every month at 10:30 a.m. Both storytimes will be held at the Eastside Recreation Center located at 3950 Paxton Ave.
“It’s important for [customers] to be able to see us and have a little bit of continuity so that they don’t have to give up everything just because we’re closed,” said Edith. “It’s something that lets them know that we value them.”
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