Main level expected to reopen in May

The Cassville Branch of the Barry-Lawrence Regional Library is serving patrons from the basement this spring, as renovations are underway in the main level. 

On March 2, the library closed the main doors and took its physical collection out of circulation for an estimated two months, with a reopening planned for May. 

While renovations are underway, the library will still be serving patrons with a majority of its normal operations, such as book ordering, printing, faxing and computer access. 

The branch’s physical collection is unavailable during this time; however, patrons will still be able to pick up books that have been ordered for them at the branch. 

Patrons looking for books at the library may temporarily order books on the library’s website at https://blrlibrary.missourievergreen.org, or have library staff order the items for them by visiting or calling the branch.

Patrons are being asked to use the downstairs entrance on the west side of the building, where staff is set up with temporary accommodations. 

Two computers have also been set up in the library basement for limited use. Branch Supervisor Jennifer Cochran said that considering the time of year while people are trying to prepare their taxes, computer access was a must during this project.

Children and adult programs have not slowed down for the renovation at the branch. All regular programs are still ongoing, such as children’s storytimes and homeschool classes, as well as adult book club and exercise classes. 

The branch is still holding both adult and youth paint classes at their regular times, and crochet class is still held every Saturday. 

Library staff are going digital, as they recognized that foot traffic may be slower during the renovations as they do not have the same space for patrons to gather for extended periods.

While they are unable to socialize with patrons as normal, staff have been posting updates, questions and challenges to the library’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/CassvilleBranchLibrary to stay engaged with its patrons. 

When the branch opens its main doors back up, the public can expect a fresh look with new flooring, refreshed paint, some updated furniture and additional study rooms in store for patrons.

“We are very excited to see all the changes and see what new opportunities and how these renovations will allow us to expand our services to our loyal patrons,” a library press release said. “We look forward to adding even more family programs so please let us know if you have any ideas that you would like to see us try.”