Countdown Begins for Pine Hills Opening

Purloined from APL's Stephanie Simon

Renovations at the Pine Hills Branch Library are almost complete. The fully updated building now features an open floor plan and grand staircase. The 1st and 2nd floors are bathed in sunlight from the new rooftop light monitor. Glass-panel windows have been installed to define the lobby area, walls have been painted, and cabinetry and flooring installed. Landscaping is nearing completion. The building also has new bathrooms, lighting, and an energy-efficient heating and cooling system. We're poised to begin moving the furniture, collections, computers, and other technology into the building this month. We expect to open the library to the public in mid-November.

A special grand opening celebration is planned for Saturday, Dec. 5, from 1 to 5 p.m. for the whole community. We'll have a ribbon cutting ceremony, entertainment, refreshments, and giveaways. This party is a great way to see the newly renovated library and all that it has to offer. Please mark the date on your calendar and make plans to join us at your new Pine Hills Branch Library!

Rest of the New Libraries Not Far Behind

We've got four other new neighborhood libraries opening, one right after the other. Here's a quick update:
• The Delaware Branch Library on Delaware Avenue is expected to open in December, with a grand opening celebration for the community set for Jan. 9 from 1 to 5 p.m. Building renovations are finishing up, and we'll start moving into the library in the coming weeks.
• The Howe Branch Library on Schuyler and Broad Streets is expected to open to the public in February. A new addition is being built, the windows have been refurbished, new electrical and heating/cooling systems are in place, and interior work is continuing.
• The Bach Branch Library on New Scotland Avenue is projected to open in the spring. Geothermal wells are in place, the steel structure is up, and crews are framing the interior.
• The Arbor Hill/West Hill Branch Library on Henry Johnson Boulevard is also expected to open in the spring. As with Bach, the geothermal wells are dug, steel structure is in place, and interior framing and systems work is underway.