The Garrettsville Library is closed for renovations through Saturday, January 24th,” Annie Zwisler, PCDL Public Relations and Development Manager shared recently. “We’re working to create a more accessible and welcoming space,” she explained.
According to PCDL Library Director Jonathan Harris, the last upgrade at the branch took place in the 1990s, so a refresh will be welcome change. “The renovations will prioritize accessibility features while updating flooring and finishes,” Harris explained, “to make the space that was originally opened in 1987 more warm and inviting by today’s standards.”
“People love their hometown library,” Zwisler shared. She explained that renovations will bring a cleaner asthetic to both the library and the meeting space. “And when we reopen on January 26th, we’ll provide the same great resources and service the community has come to expect.”
Harris shared that Garrettsville vendor Scotchman Electric LLC will be working on the renovation. Library Design Associates, the same firm who completed the Brimfield Library renovations for PDCL in 2024, conducted the design work.
During the Garrettsville closure, the library return drop boxes will still be accessible outside the library, with returns checked in regularly. In addition, patrons can return items or place items on hold for pick up at neighboring branches or Library Express delivery locations.
The Windham Library in the Renaissance Family Center (9005 Wilverne Drive) is less than a 15-minute drive from Garrettsville. The nearest Library Express is in Hiram, near the Post Office on Hayden Street.
Library users may also take advantage of PCDL’s Bookmobile stops to return items or browse for new materials. Bookmobile stops around the county can be found under the events tab at portagelibrary.org or by calling (330) 527-5082 Ext. 221.
Harris explained that during renovations, any voicemail messages left at the Garrettsville Library will be checked regularly. He suggested callers contact other PCDL branches if they require immediate assistance. Messages may also be submitted online at the “Contact Us” page at portagelibrary.org.
Harris explained that renovations will also be planned for the remaining five PCDL branches in the future. He shared that the process is a little more complicated, since updates must be completed in concert with building owners. Renovating the Garrettsville branch was a more streamlined process, he noted, as it’s the only building in the PCDL system owned by the library consortium.
The Garrettsville Library is scheduled to reopen to the public on Monday, January 26th from 9 am until 7 pm. And if you’ve never visited the Garrettsville Library, mark your calendar to attend the open house on Monday, February 2nd at 10 am, where you’ll have the opportunity to celebrate the updated space with music, refreshments, and fanfare.
The Garrettsville Library is located at 10482 South Street in Garrettsville.
