Peabody Public Library to dedicate new construction with ceremony, open house on January 16
(Talk of the Town photos provided) Above, the newly constructed auditorium in the lower level of the Peabody Public Library in Columbia City will be named in memory of the late board member, community volunteer and much-loved educator Robert Brittain. Below, a portion of the library has been transformed into a young adult room -- ideal for gaming, internet usage and enjoyment for young adults.
By Ray Ranier
When the Peabody Public Library’s new building was constructed in 1999, it was with an eye to the future as well as the needs of the moment.
With large unfinished areas on the lower level, they knew that we had the option to respond to the changing world of library service. As the library moved more towards a community center, they realized that spaces such as a large computer lab, an auditorium, and more meeting rooms were desirable. With libraries across the country beginning to focus on young adults – our near-future patrons – they saw that we came up short in that area.
Those of you who have tried to find a parking space on “White Truck Day” will appreciate the need library leaders saw for a larger parking lot.
Thus, the Peabody Public Library embarked upon an ambitious building renovation which included a larger computer lab, a 250 seat auditorium with stage, lighting and sound, a young adult room, 36 new parking spaces and such assorted bonuses as a new periodical reading room, a new large study room and an Indiana Room closer to the information and circulation desks.
After almost an entire year of disruption , sawdust and noise, the saws have been put away, the dumpsters emptied, the plastic taken down and the carpets vacuumed; what is left to do after a construction project except have a dedication?
The dedication and open house is a somewhat special event for the staff and patrons of the Peabody Public Library since the late board member Robert Brittain played an integral role in bringing the project to fruition. It is to his memory that the new multi-use auditorium will be dedicated at a special ceremony. The open house and dedication is set for Sunday, January 16 at 2 p.m. The event will continue until 4 p.m.
The ceremony will include remarks by Mayor James Fleck and some of Mr. Brittain’s former students and colleagues. There will also be an open house with viewing of the new areas, refreshments and music by harpist Devon Haupt and string trio Musica D’arco. The children’s department will have crafts and activity stations for the kids and video gaming for the teens.