The Chatham-Kent Public Library (CKPL) is celebrating new renovations to its Wallaceburg branch, which are expected to make the space more welcoming and accessible.
The Wallaceburg branch held a drop-in event on Thursday to allow the public to see the recently revitalized library, which includes fresh paint and lower shelving to allow better access to the collections of books, movies, and video games available.
Stefanie Yeoman, the manager of outreach and programs for CKPL, said the library was in need of a makeover.
“The original shelving was still in the branch so we really wanted to get a fresh updated look and make sure that the shelving met accessibility standards, but it also really opened up the space,” she said.
Yeoman added that the shorter shelves improve sightlines in the building, allowing staff to monitor the space with less obstruction.
Renovations at the branch began in November 2023 and were funded through the CKPL general budget.
Since being completed, Yeoman said the changes have been well-received by members of the community.
“We have gotten so many positive comments about the changes,” she said. “The more welcoming feel of the branch does just make people come and spend more time here and really makes it a community hub.”
Yeoman said library officials are also examining the possibility of renovating other library branches in CK that are in need of an upgrade.