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Newly Renovated Takoma Park Library Reopens

The Takoma Park Library reopened, March 10, 2009, after a series of extensive interior and exterior renovations totaling at $1.95 million. Closed in October 2008, The Takoma Park Library Neighborhood reopened a month before the projected six-month estimate.

“People were happy to get back in this building,” said Heather Petsche, Young Adult Librarian for The Takoma Park Library. “Mostly they looked up at the ceiling with an awed expression because we got new light fixtures. They are what we got the most comments about”

The renovation of the historic Takoma Park Library, the oldest D.C. Neighborhood Public Library, is part of the DC Public Library Capital Construction Initiatives.

This is only the beginning,” said Chief Librarian Ginnie Cooper in a recent DC Public Library press release. “There are 6 buildings in under construction and 2 more with designs in development. It is a very exciting time for the DC Public Library.”

The official grand opening of the Takoma Public Library is scheduled for March 21, 2009. The Open House Celebration will be a daylong celebration featuring programs for children and family activities and refreshments for all.

“The open house allows the public to celebrate all of the services in the renovated Library,” said Cooper.

“The turnout for the reopening was smaller than expected,” said Petsche. “People weren’t sure that we were open because the construction fence is still up, they are still putting finishing touches, and the grand opening isn’t scheduled until the 21st.”