The Springfield-Greene County Library’s Midtown Carnegie Branch closed May 6 for building renovations. The branch will be closed for approximately 10 months for much-needed upgrades.
Renovations include the north entry, off the parking lot, which will be fully renovated to provide accessible ramps to the basement and main floors. The ramps will be enclosed inside a new addition, protecting them from the elements and providing direct access to the main floor and the library’s lower-level Maker Space and Computer Training Center.
The branch’s elevator, which runs between the lower level and the second floor, will be fully repaired to once again provide access to all of the library’s meeting rooms, departments and services.
A new energy-efficient HVAC system will replace the existing boiler and chiller to provide reliable heating and cooling and distribute fresh air throughout the building. New water piping will be installed throughout the branch.
All library services, including book returns in the library parking lot, will be closed during renovation. Story times and book discussions have moved to The Fairbanks, 1126 N. Broadway Ave. The Computer Training Center moved to the Library Center. The Community Fridge temporarily relocated to the Library Station, 2535 N. Kansas Expressway, in June. The fridge has served nearly 3,000 patrons since it opened last September, according to Springfield Community Gardens.
History
In 1901, 50 prominent Springfield businessmen and influential citizens met in the office of Mayor Ralph Walker and enthusiastically supported a plan to start a library. Philanthropist Andrew Carnegie agreed to give $50,000 if the city provided $5,000 annually for the purchase of books and the maintenance of the institution. In 1903, a site for the main library is purchased for $3,250. The money is raised by popular subscription with the largest individual donation only $100. The cornerstone is laid and construction begins on the stately structure at 397 E. Central.
On March 12, 1905, the Springfield Public Library opens with limited hours and one staff member. The library owned a total of 700 volumes and boasts a circulation of 8,657 during its first year. In 1937, thanks to a Works Progress Administration grant, the library was enlarged to its current size. The library became known as the Main Library with the opening of other branches throughout the city and county in the decades following, and was renovated to add a ramp and elevator in 1978. In 1999, the Main Library became known as the Midtown Carnegie Branch. In 2005, the library district celebrated the 100th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone of the Midtown Carnegie Branch.