Frequently Asked Questions at the new Tillsonburg Public Library building
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As many of you know, the Tillsonburg library has reopened at 2 Library Lane! We’re very excited to be back in such a beautiful and functional space.
A number of patrons have asked us questions about the new building, so here are a couple of frequently asked questions we have received, along with their answers.
Q: Where are all the books?
A: We are currently waiting for shelving that is on backorder. Once that shelving arrives, we will be able to have more books in both the children’s and adult areas.
There will never be quite as many books as in the previous incarnation of the library for a few reasons. Firstly, the previous shelving was very tall, and our new shelving is much lower in order to adhere to accessibility guidelines. Now patrons using mobility devices and those with other accessibility challenges are physically able to access all parts of our collections.
Additionally, the Tillsonburg Library is now part of a branch system, which means that our extensive collection is housed throughout the County rather than in just one branch. This allows for more “people-centred spaces” in our libraries, and because of the deliveries that arrive multiple times per week at each branch, we are able to move books quickly and easily throughout the County for your convenience.
Q: It looks bare in here, why is there so much empty space?
A: Well, part of this can be answered by the response to the first question; we’re waiting for more shelving and more books to arrive. We are also waiting for additional seating to come, including games tables with chairs and additional comfortable seating in the children’s area. Additionally, we are prepared to add whatever is needed along the way!
Our Teen Advisory Group will be meeting soon and will play a large role in choosing furnishings for the library’s Youth Area, something we are very much looking forward to! The library will be fully functional and cozy before too long.
Q: Why was the window on the south side of the library (in the adult area) removed?
A: With the decision to create a dedicated Local History area, the window was removed and the wall was pushed out to give the library an extra 400 square feet. Direct sunlight has the potential to damage materials very quickly, so to preserve this valuable collection it was necessary to put a solid wall in place. This also allowed us to create two fantastic study rooms that have already proven to be a hit with patrons!
For answers to any other questions you may have, stop in to the library to have a chat with staff. We are more than happy to provide you with the information you’re looking for!
Happy Reading!
- Sydnie
UPCOMING RELEASES
Never Go Back, by Lee Child (September 3)
W is for Wasted, by Sue Grafton (September 10)
The Longest Ride, by Nicholas Sparks (September 17)
Thankless in Death, by JD Robb (September 17)