On July 16, Library Director Amy Young and Library Board President Frank Cimino cut the bright blue ribbon between the pillars of Reed Memorial Library’s new outdoor pavilion, officially opening the renovated landscape to the public. Board members, Friends of the Library, staff members, and community members cheered as the ribbon fell.
The project began in March of this year and was finished this week. New plantings, seating areas, and sidewalks surround both the front and rear entrances. The parking lot was redesigned for improved safety, resurfaced, and increased its capacity. The outdoor pavilion, one of the project’s crown jewels, was designed to blend attractively with the library’s historic architecture. Located at the corner of the rear parking lot, the pavilion can accommodate up to 100 people. It will be used for library programs and public events.
“This project is a visual reminder of our past and it’s a promise to continually adapt, expand and enhance our service to the community,” Young said. “These spaces will allow us to offer exciting new learning opportunities both inside and outside the building. Our hope is the residents of Ravenna and beyond will feel welcome to enjoy the peaceful setting with family and friends.”
The historic cut sandstone, formerly used in the landscape, were repurposed to make a circular meditation and gathering area on the lawn. Nearby are accessible instruments; a drum, caterpillar, and butterfly, that were provided through a generous grant from the Portage County Board of Developmental Disabilities. A cedar swing graces one side of the back entrance and two game board tables are included in the patio seating options.
This summer also marks the 100th anniversary of the library’s 1924 building, the portion behind the large sandstone staircase on Main Street. “It’s significant that we’re celebrating both of these events in the same year,” Young said. “We have this beautiful, 100-year old building that is actively used each day. We’ve enhanced its architectural presence on Main Street with this renovation. At the same time, as libraries across the country have recognized the need for more community-oriented spaces, we’ve created these outdoor gathering areas to help take us into the next 100-plus years.”
Jason Kenter of Implement Studio designed the project and Enviroscapes performed the work. The project was funded through Ohio’s Public Library Funds and annual capital improvement funds provided by the state.
