The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Central Library on track for opening in October
Other branches to resume normal hours
The director of the Elyria Public Library says the interior decor of the building is well underway.
Elyria Public Library System’s new Central Branch is right on track for its expected finish date in October.
Lyn Crouse, director of the Elyria Public Library System, said the interior decor of the building at the corner of Broad Street and East Avenue is underway as well.
Shelving was ordered and the furniture bid package is being worked on, Crouse said.
“We’re so happy that this project is right on time,” she said. “We only have a couple more months to go. It was past time to get this going.”
The building is going to feature administrative offices, a drive-thru service window, a meeting room and a children’s storytime room.
With new developments such as side buildings, building switches and new positions, Crouse said she’s completed nearly everything she’s wanted to as director.
So much so that she decided to retire by October at the age of 68.
“It’s about time I retire, I’m certainly old enough,” Crouse said. “I’ve achieved nearly all of my goals, and I’m very proud of the work we’ve done here.”
While the Board of Trustees searches for Crouse’s replacement, she said other positions within the Library System are being filled as well.
Currently, there are five positions available at the library.
People who were laid off due to the novel coronavirus pandemic have decided not to come back or found other employment, Crouse said.
With the hiring of new staff, she said all of the branches are gearing up to fully operate again with full hours by April 1.
Additionally, the renovation of West River Branch is expected to be completed soon.
New shelving and furniture is being placed and the building should open March 1.
“I’m currently the project manager for this site,” Crouse said. “I really think the child section is going to be a knock-your-socks off experience.
“People are going to be so excited. It’s very clean, very fresh and very 21st century.”