The Hometown Treasure October 2011 | Page 16

Some young library patrons settle in for the weekly story time in the new Children’s Section of the newly remodeled LaGrange County main library. Book Report In a process that took about 16 years and an estimated six million dollars to complete from conception to open house, the LaGrange County Public Library is now home in a fully remodeled building. Although there were some roadblocks along the way to remodeling the library, library director Mary Hooley stated that, “The past is pg 14 · The Hometown Treasure · Oct. ‘11 photo and story by Justin Geigley over and we are presently enjoying the new facility ...” In the beginning phases of the project, there was much concern over the building being “land locked” by having the Fire Department next door. Also, the cost of the project and shutting down the alley to move all utility lines were potential stumbling points. Although the conception and planning began in 1995, construction didn’t actually take place until April 2010. The project finished off with an open house on July 30 of this year and first day open for full service the next day. The library increased in size from 12,323 to 35,487 square feet and added many new features. See the next several pages for a look at what’s new as well as a look into the history of the LaGrange Public Library.