Library to reopen Jan. 26, chess league moves

MADISON – Madison Public Library will reopen on Jan. 26 in its new, enlarged and enhanced facility at 142 Plaza Blvd., ‘two doors’ east of its former location.

Any materials checked out from Madison Public Library after Dec. 18, 2017 will be due on Jan. 26, 2018. Until the Madison facility reopens, Monrovia Public Library is the closest branch to Madison; the Monrovia branch’s telephone number is 256-489-3392.

One of the first civic groups to reserve meeting space at the new Madison Public Library is Madison City Chess League. The league players will relocate their practices from Hogan Family YMCA to the library on Jan. 22.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technology throughout, the new library will cover 25,000 square feet, which is 10,000 square feet larger than the former library. The new facility will feature an open plan similar to a bookstore’s layout.

Groups can access enlarged meeting spaces after hours. Private study rooms will be available for patrons who need a quiet atmosphere.

A small boardroom will offer today’s latest technology. Patrons can enjoy designs and paintings in an art gallery. The Friends of the Library Bookstore has been expanded, more conducive to shopping by guests.

A creativity lab is another addition in the new building. Automated handling of materials will result in speedy returns and processing.

The new structure allows abundant amounts of sunlight to enter the building. An indoor fireplace will be popular as a spot for cozy reading.

A separate room will be dedicated to children’s storytime. The library will include an interactive center for early literacy sessions.

‘Tweens,’ or older children approaching teenage years, will have a gaming center. Teenagers will have separate rooms to meet, study and interact. Family bathroom facilities will be included.

On the grounds, a large outdoor screen will be installed for movie screenings. A natural outdoor amphitheater will be built, as well as outdoor seating for patrons and families.

Sarah Sledge is Branch Manager of Madison Public Library. For more information, huntsvillelibraryfoundation.org/Madison.