Bozeman, Montana – The Bozeman Public Library recently completed the first phase of renovations intended to modernize the structure and make a more pleasant atmosphere for library users.
The majority of the public rooms on the first and second floors were included in Part One of the renovations, according to Library Director Susan Gregory, who also said they wanted to open up many of the library’s spaces, create new spaces, and bring in more natural light. Less stiff seating places have updated, more comfortable furnishings. New furniture has also been renovated for the adolescent corner.
“We needed something to refresh the building and so the exciting thing is that it does feel it’s gotten a facelift, it feels new although it’s our same building. So, the new library has a facelift. And it feels a lot fresher,” said Gregory.
She claimed that since it was constructed in 2006, the building has not actually undergone any updates. These updates were required to preserve the library and retain it as a warm and welcoming space.
Also, the stacks have been relocated to allow for more natural lighting and to improve views of the nearby park and mountains. New LED lighting was also installed by the renovators.
“The Hub” is a new gathering space near the back stairs, featuring new seating, vending machines and tables for laptops, Gregory said. Upstairs is a new station for checking out laptops using a library card and food is now allowed in the library.
As soon as part two of the renovations is complete, which is anticipated to be in the late summer or early fall, three new conference rooms will also be usable. In the first story, renovation workers are now constructing two artistic labs.
According to Gregory, these will feature a teaching kitchen and a place called the Workbench, a technological lab with a recording studio, and a maker’s area. Anyone will be able to take classes in these labs.
“You can come here and take advantage of this beautiful space for free and as soon as our creative labs are up and running and our meeting rooms are available, you’ll be able to do a lot of other things for free. So, we just want to be able to continue to welcome people.”
The library project received almost all of its funding from private contributors and companies including First Security Bank. Gregory noted that Bozeman is a special city that cherishes the library and all of its activities and is very giving.
