MERRILLVILLE | Lake County Public Library patrons have weathered tighter spaces and relocated entrances gracefully during facility renovations, library officials said.
Ana Grandfield, the library's assistant director, said it's "a little tight" in some areas because bookshelves have been pushed closer together and some areas of the library temporarily closed down.
Grandfield said patrons have been understanding during the process, and she hasn't received complaints.
Library officials estimate the renovations could be completed in October next year.
Grandfield said it's not possible to close the library for an extended period of time to speed up the project.
"They still need their library," Grandfield said of patrons.
The central library has encountered less traffic since the project started, but other branches are picking up, Grandfield said.
Additional meeting rooms, technology improvements, a more efficient heating and cooling system and a refurbished exterior are included in the renovation.
The book drop-off will be changed so patrons won't have to leave their vehicles to return items.
Grandfield said some of the improvements will reduce operating costs.
She said crews are attempting to complete as much exterior work as possible before winter and workers will focus on the interior during winter months.
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