Another Wichita library to close for remodeling

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — The Wichita Public Library is remodeling or renovating some of its seven locations. On Wednesday, the library announced that one of the library branches will close for almost five months starting in October.

The last day of operation at the Maya Angelou Branch, near 21st North and Hillside, will be Sept. 28. The tentative reopening date is Feb. 24.

The city says the closure is necessary because the Angelou Branch is so small that construction work will interrupt services. It says the easiest and quickest solution is to shut it down entirely during the renovations. Staff will work at other library locations until Angelou reopens.

What will change at Angelou

During the renovation, workers will move the circulation desk and computer stations and add a small meeting room and a sunroom.

The library will also get updated shelving, furnishings, fixtures, and technology. When it reopens, it will also offer enhanced family engagement activities.

Other closures

The improvements to Angelou Branch were initially set for next spring. However, the city moved the Angelou renovations up because work needs to be done to the interior of the Rockwell Branch next spring.

The city says the goal is to reopen the Angelou Branch by the end of February, in time for the Rockwell Branch to close for interior renovations.

When Rockwell closes, the Wichita Public Library will open a small outlet at the Edgemoor Recreation Center for patrons to pick up and drop off materials. The library will also keep Angelou open for longer hours in case Rockwell neighbors want to visit it.

The Westlink Branch has been closed for remodeling since May 2023. It is tentatively scheduled to reopen in January. In the meantime, visitors can visit the temporary Westlink Branch at 7011 W. Central, Suite 205.

Remodeling of the Alford Branch is still in the planning stages.

Angelou timeline

• Sept. 14 — The library will turn off holds going to Angelou
• Sept. 28 — Last day of operation
• Oct. 14 — Construction company moves in
• Feb. 24 — Tentative reopening date

The Wichita Public Library says the Angelou Branch will close two weeks before construction so workers can pack up and move the collection and furniture and prepare the building for the remodeling work.

The library is seeking artists to create artwork for the remodeled library branches. The entry deadline is Sept. 13 at 5 p.m. Click here to learn more .

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