Soft reopening being planned for late October

By Russ Tarby

Contributing Writer

A new carpet’s being laid, and new furniture and bookshelves will soon sit comfortably atop it.

Major renovations have been in the works at Liverpool Public Library for the past six months during which the institution offered myriad services at a temporary “mini-library” operating out of the building’s Carman Community Room.

Now, as work nears completion in the library’s main room, LPL Director Glenna Wisniewski plans a soft reopening during the week of Oct. 20.

“We will let our patrons know exactly when as soon as we can nail down the details,” the director said. “I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our patrons for their patience and grace as the library has dealt with two big events this summer, the renovation of the main library and the ransomware attack on the Onondaga County Public Library system.”

The July 12 cyberattack negatively affected all county libraries, but Liverpool fared better than most, Wisniewski said.

Most elements of the LPL system — including public computers, Internet access and telephones — are now operational.

Meanwhile, contractors continue to fine-tune the main room renovations.

Work began in April with improvements to the main lobby and restrooms paid for by the Liverpool Central School District, which owns the library building at 310 Tulip St.

The lion’s share of the renovation project cost $1,244,834, an expenditure from the library’s fund balance approved by its trustees in May.

To allow staffers time to relocate the library collection, LPL closed down May 13 through 17 before work in the main room began May 20.

The improvements there — designed by architects from the Syracuse firm Ashley McGraw — include centrally located circulation and reference areas, more seating for small groups and individual work, improved lighting and additional quiet spaces.

On Sept. 11 at the village hall, Wisniewski reported to the LPL Board of Trustees that the main room should be ready for the public shortly before the Origins of Jazz concert featuring Mark Nanni & The Intention in the Carman Community Room at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27.

There will be a grander opening celebration after that date, Wisniewski told the trustees.

Wisniewski praised her staff for “diligently providing quality services during this challenging time.”

Both employees and patrons have weathered the challenges and inconveniences caused by the renovation project, the first undertaken at the local library in 35 years.

“I thank the Liverpool community and library patrons for their support and patience,” Wisniewski said. “I promise it will all be worth it.”