To provide Irving residents with better public library access, the city is in the initial planning stages of examining ways to build two additional free-standing libraries to service more customers.
These changes will offer four, full-service libraries, which will place 95 percent of Irving residents within three miles of a library. The two new facilities will replace existing storefront locations—Southwest and Northwest branch libraries—eliminating annual lease payments.
“This plan provides an innovative approach to enhancing library services to reach more residents,” said Patty Landers, library director. “The new Northwest Branch Library will more than triple the size of the existing storefront location. We are particularly excited about collaborating with the Parks and Recreation Department in building a joint senior activity center/library complex in the next few years.”
In addition to the new facilities, the plans include a 5,000-square-foot build-out of the Valley Ranch Library—with expanded space for teen and children’s services and a larger program/meeting room—as well as renovations to the Central Library.
Upgrades will include the installation of new carpet, paint, wall coverings and lighting; an expanded children’s program area; a teen area; a larger computer lab; and a quiet area. The East Branch Library will be consolidated into the Central Library.
Residents may provide input regarding the new library facilities online. For more information, call (972) 721-2628.
Watch videoPosted Nov. 7