By Amelia Tarallo
Hometown Weekly Staff
For two years, the Islington Branch Library has been under construction as it was renovated. During that time, patrons sought out services at the main branch while waiting for their beloved library branch to reopen.
The wait is almost over and patrons will soon be welcomed back to enjoy all the old things they loved about their library - with some new additions.
An announcement released last year informed patrons that the library was expected to reopen in July of this year. Unfortunately, like most things, COVID-19 has led to a delay in reopening. “The Islington Branch Library is almost ready to open. We don't have an opening date yet. We have ordered the furniture and due to COVID, it is on backorder,” explained Claire Connors. Connors will soon be back at helm of the Islington Branch as the Branch Librarian.
There will be a few new additions at the Islington Branch, however. In addition to shelves of books, the Islington Branch will also be home to a brand new business center. Those who used the main branch to complete quiet work will be pleasantly surprised by the new center. “There will be a quiet area where patrons can come in and work. There will be access to a scanner, fax and copier,” said Connors. Those who have opted to work in the busier main branch will be pleased to find a new spot in Islington.
Those who loved the old library will be equally as pleased to return and see some familiar sights. “The collection has been curated to a newer one. Books have been ordered, cataloged and packed and are ready to go. We will still have speed reads, which are books that are not requestable and have a seven-day check-out time,” explained Connors.
Librarians are just as eager to be back. “I am most looking forward to seeing the patrons back at the library. I have seen quite a few at the Main Library, however there are a lot of patrons I haven't seen since March of 2020,” explained Connors.
She is also anticipating further collaborative efforts within Westwood. “I am also excited about working with other town departments. Youth and Family Service and the Recreation Department are also housed in the building. There is also a large community space downstairs. We hope to use the community space for some library programs.”
It shouldn’t be too much longer before the Islington Branch Library is filled with patrons again. “It's a beautiful space. I think the patrons will be happy to be back and will be amazed at how it looks inside,” said Connors. For now, patrons can continue to use the Main Branch until their beloved Islington annex opens its doors once more.
