Decatur Public Library undergoing renovations

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND)- Changes are underway at the Decatur Public Library.

The library has seen renovations to the majority of its first floor already.

“It’s got the carpeting; it’s got the shelving units and beginning December 1st we’ll be getting all of the furniture to replace what’s currently on the floor,” said Alissa T. Henkel, the library’s Head of Programs, Resources, and Services.

Now, these much-needed changes are making their way to the second floor, starting with the furniture.

“So we knew all along we needed to replace it with something that could be readily cleaned. So everything’s going to be covered with, you know, like a vinyl covering… and so this will give us an opportunity to come into a more modern era.”

The library staff initially planned on renovating in 2019, but had to hold off due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

By renovating the space, this gives the library an opportunity to update its visual identity too.

“We don’t really have our logo anywhere except on our signage right now. So we thought, let’s put it on our service desk. So you come in, the first thing you’re greeted with this is Decatur public library, and there will be a new tagline.”

Librarians say that they’re excited for visitors to see all of the new changes, and the ones still to come.

“When you have a vivid, colorful environment, you know, it just kind of lights you up. So I’m really looking forward to people coming in who may not have been here for a while, who remember the old library and the old furniture. And I remember when it used to be at the old Sears building. It always seemed kind of dark to me. And this place is much more light and vibrant.”

The main renovations are set to finish by December 19th, with the finishing touches coming in February.