Palmdale library turns new page, reopens today

By CRAIG CURRIER
Valley Press Staff Writer

The library, which has remained shut since July 3 for the consolidation of materials from the old Youth Library, was initially expected to open before or soon after the beginning of the school year.

But Palmdale Communications Manager John Mlynar said unexpected problems, including previously undiscovered water damage along a back wall, slow delivery of the new automatic doors at the library's entrance and electrical wiring that required repair, delayed the plans.

Mlynar said though the library is opening later than expected, an August or early September target date was optimistic at the time.

"We were hoping that we would be open when school started," Mlynar said. "But we said we'd open sometime in the fall.

"When you remodel a building that is 30 years old, you're going to run into surprises, and we did."

In addition, Mlynar said many of the building's facilities were updated and the walls required painting.

Because no additions were made to the building, shelves, furniture and designated computer areas had to be rearranged to create space for thousands of books to be added to the library's collection.

Among other things, self-checkout kiosks and lower bookshelves generate an inviting openness to the library, Deputy City Manager Nancy Quelland said.

"We are absolutely thrilled to reopen," Quelland said. "The first thing people will notice is how much more light and open the library looks and feels.

"We have created a more appealing and accessible space for both children and adults."

While officials were saddened to close the Youth Library in the summer, Mlynar said he expects the new, all-in-one facility to better serve everyone.

"Now families can enjoy the library experience together," he said. "It promotes a sense of reading together, where I'm not just reading to you, I'm reading with you."

Officials hope the self-checkout stations will not only expedite traffic in and out of the building but also enhance visitors experience.

Returning books has become somewhat easier, too, as a drive-up option is available on the west side of the building, where what used to be a garbage pick-up access road has been turned into a drop-off station. Drivers can pull their cars up to bins off Sierra Highway, which will divert some of the foot traffic in and around the entrance, as well as alleviate some of the added stress on the city's parking lot.

The library opens at 10 a.m. today and closes at 8 p.m., which are regular operating hours Monday through Thursday. The building will be open between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays.

Recognizable elements moved from the Youth Library are a large red train and book furniture that Mlynar said offer a degree of familiarity to the new facility.

A homework room has been added to the library with additional windows that allow for easy supervision from afar, Mlynar said.

An open house is planned for Dec. 3, which will incorporate a ceremonial library opening.

ccurrier@avpress.com