Norfolk County Public Library staff have been busy setting up the Waterford Leaf.
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That’s the name for the temporary location of the Waterford Public Library at the Waterford Tricenturena on E. Church St.
“It’s playing on that idea of a tree with branches,” explained Belinda Smith, virtual library coordinator at NCPL. “The temporary location is just a leaf off the branch while we make the branch nice and fancy.”
A $1.2-million renovation project is getting underway that will see new HVAC systems, windows and lighting to make the building more energy efficient. Under-utilized space is being reclaimed that will make for a more modern, open concept facility with new flooring, shelving and circulation desk.
“We have our audio books, DVDs, magazines, kids’ books, and our new releases are right when you walk in the door,” Smith noted, adding that while the rest of the Waterford branch’s collection will go into storage, copies from others NCPL branches can be ordered for pickup at the Leaf.
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She said all library services will be available at the Leaf except for printing, faxing, and photocopying due to the large size of the printer for which there isn’t space.
Lack of space at the Leaf also means some programs can’t be accommodated but through a partnership, the Waterford Heritage and Agriculture Museum will host the preschool story time programs each Friday morning at 10:30 am starting September 13.
Smith said staff are still coordinating with the IT department to see if a computer can be installed for use by visitors.
Waterford residents can also access full library services at NCPL’s other four branches located in Simcoe, Delhi, Port Rowan, and Port Dover. For those who don’t drive, Ride Norfolk bus service is an option, with tickets available for purchase at the Leaf.
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Richard Anderson, facilities and operations manager for NCPL, said the Leaf is expected to open at the arena after Labor Day and will remain there until completion of the renovation project that is anticipated for late February or early March of 2025.
“Branch hours here will be slightly different to coincide with the arena activities with the hopes to draw in new faces,” Anderson explained. “We think it’s a great opportunity and we’re going to try it.”
The Leaf at the Waterford Tricenturena will be open Tuesday to Friday from 1 pm to 8 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm
Library patrons can follow the NCPL social media pages on Facebook and Instagram or sign up for a monthly e-mail newsletter to find out about programming for the coming month at all library branches, as well as updates on the renovation project.
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