The main branch of the Prince George Public Library is open to the public again but the new renovations and COVID restrictions make it a whole new place.
Access to the library is through the Civic Centre's rotunda while major renovations take place to create a new front entrance.
The circulation counter is in the same spot it used to be but it's been revamped using Plexiglass as a safety measure, featuring a sleek curved counter and all the books that are accessible to the public are on display only on the main floor in order to keep sanitization and monitoring to a smaller area.
There is no seating available except for those wishing to access the computers that are available for public use.
For now the days are gone when someone could curl up in a chair with a good book at the library.
"Once the renovation to the main entrance is complete the elevators will see people flow into the library," library director Paul Burry said.
Once the main entrance renovations are complete, patrons of the library will enjoy a different experience than that of the past. Gone are the dark set of stairs and the tiny elevator that was once accessed through the parkade.
"That entrance was never intended for public use," Burry said. "No, we'll have this big, inviting facade that will be welcoming people to come in from the parkade level, the plaza level and as people enter the building they'll have great sight lines, accessibility will be better and there's a larger elevator so it will solve a lot of challenges that we've had in terms of accessibility and safety."
Renovations should be completed barring any unforeseen circumstances by mid-October, Dale Jarvis, supervisor of infrastructure delivery for the city, said.
Llibrary staff and management have been a pleasure to work with during the renovations, he added.
"It's going to be really exciting to see it completed and to have access to that space," Burry said. "We're looking forward to having a big launch party to invite the community to come in."
He added they will celebrate while always adhering to the pandemic guidelines and restrictions that are in place.
Due to COVID-19, the Bob Harkins Branch (downtown) is open for limited service Tuesday to Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Nechako Branch (Hart) is open Monday to Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The features of the new entrance are:
• A two-door elevator providing access from the parking area, plaza level, main floor, and second floor.
• Improved stairs for access from the lower and plaza lobbies to the main floor.
• Windows to maximize natural light and provide a sense of openness.
• Improved safety with better visibility/sight lines.
• Sliding glass or push button access.
• Enhanced accessible parking and drop off zone at parking level.
• Additional public space.
To see the rendition of the planned renovations check out https://youtu.be/MXGpvr0qr7c and for more information visit https://www.pgpl.ca/renovations.
