EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — El Paso’s oldest library will be reopening to the public after renovations, according to the City of El Paso.
The 130-year-old library’s grand reopening celebration will be at 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 10, at the Main Public Library, located at 501 N. Oregon St.
The library, originally opened in 1954, has undergone renovations as part of the City’s plan to “co-locate” with the new Mexican American Cultural Center (MACC), according to the news release by the City of El Paso.
According to El Paso Public Libraries, the library was opened at the old Sheldon Hotel in 1894, it was then moved to City Hall and eventually moved to its first stand-alone location in Cleveland Square.
Improvements to the library include enhanced spaces for print collections, modern reading nooks, private study rooms and a new glass entrance for visitors, according to the City.
Here are the following highlights of the redesigned library, according to the City:
- Sub-Basement Level: Administrative offices, restrooms, technology services, staff breakroom, and dedicated space for the Bookmobile.
- Basement Level: Computer lab and multimedia room, literacy center, main collection space, reading and study rooms, additional restrooms, and “Centre Future,” a new program focused on helping young El Pasoans plan for their future.
- First Floor: New glass-enclosed main entrance, Border Heritage and main collections with expanded work areas, renovated meeting room, Friends of the Library Bookstore, quiet room, and café area.
- Second Floor: Fully upgraded Children’s Area and Teen Town, along with improved restrooms and storage areas.
- Facility-Wide: All-new furniture, finishes, and upgraded amenities throughout the building.
“It is more than just a place; it is an information hub, community gathering point and gateway to the world, that expands the minds of the old and young alike,” Norma Martinez, director of El Paso Public Libraries, said. “Through this historical library, generations of El Pasoans have been provided the opportunity to cultivate their minds, so that they can learn about the rich cultural heritage that El Paso has to offer to us, and its modernization will ensure that knowledge and history continues to carry our story into the future.”
Once the library reopens to the public, it will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday through Thursday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday and Saturday.
Read: Read More