The Starke County Public Library expansion project is nearing its completion and preparing for its grand opening ceremony in November, according to Library Director Sheila Urwiler. She said the crews have been working diligently and no delays have sprung up with the recent work. Now, she said they’re about three-quarters finished with the new wing.
“For the new area, I’d say we’re probably about 75 percent done. Right now, they’re working on laying floors and finishing the painting. Next week they should be rolling carpet out, and as soon as the carpet and flooring is complete, we should be able to start putting in the shelving. So, we’re hopeful that it will be open for the public sometime in October now,” said Urwiler.
The $1.785 million project adds 4000 square feet to the northwest part of the building which will feature a new children’s wing with more controlled access and better sound protection. The added space will also provide more room for computers and set aside a young adult section, currently situated in the loft area of the library.
Urwiler said a grand opening is planned on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 2 to 4 p.m. However, there is still a lot of work to be done in the existing building, even after the new wing is complete.
“We still have quite a bit of work in the existing building to do and we don’t have an estimated completion date for that yet,” said Urwiler.
