The Haddonfield Borough Board of Commissioners are pleased to announce that the renovations are complete at the Haddonfield Public Library located at 60 North Haddon Avenue. The library is now open to the public at its original location. Increased open spaces and other restorations have made the library more effective and aesthetically pleasing.
The renovation project to the nearly 100-year-old building was approved in April 2015. Because of its age, the library was in need of improvements, not only structurally, but also for compliance with The American with Disabilities Act and 21st century technology. The 15-month, $2.2 million renovation included the installation of an elevator and modernizing the interior to make it handicapped-accessible, including ADA accessible and friendly bathrooms. A new roof was installed, the heating and cooling systems were improved, and electrical components were also upgraded. The renovation includes a heavy focus on technology as well, with new computers and systems that meet 21st century demands.
“The improvements preserve the historical aesthetics of this great building while bringing its structure and offerings up to today’s standards and fitting it with technology for the future,” Haddonfield Mayor Jeff Kasko said.
During improvements, a magnificent Terazzo tile floor was found underneath the rug in the rotunda. The floor has since been restored and is now an attractive feature of the new space. Fireplaces that were formerly hidden by shelving have also been restored aesthetically and functionally; and the ornamental plaster throughout the building has been fully refurbished.
Modern additions include fully ADA compliant shelving; all areas of the library are now fully handicapped accessible; and a designated teen room and children’s room have been added. Different color schemes and furniture were applied to several areas of the renovated building, and new technologies have been made available throughout the library.
“We are so excited to finally reveal this beautiful space and give it back to the community,” said Eric Zino, the library’s director.
An official grand opening ceremony for the library is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 17 with full details to be announced in the near future.
For more information visit the library’s website at www.haddonfieldlibrary.org, e-mail director Eric Zino at ezino@haddonfieldlibrary.org, or stop by the library at 60 N. Haddon Avenue in Haddonfield.
