New Delaware Branch Library Grand Opening Set for Jan. 9
It’s almost party time at the city’s newest neighborhood library! The fully renovated Delaware Branch Library–in a former funeral home at 331 Delaware Avenue–celebrates its grand opening on Saturday, Jan. 9, from 1 to 5 p.m. with a free party for the community.
The Delaware Branch Library grand opening party features:
1:30 p.m. Welcome ceremony with library leaders and elected officials and a ribbon cutting by the library’s story time children
2 p.m. Balloon animals and magic by Mr. Magicman
2:30 p.m. Vocal performance by Jazzhands a cappella group
3 p.m. Musical performance by Cavanaugh & Kavanaugh folk duo
Throughout the afternoon, partygoers will enjoy:
• Fun library giveaways
• Door prizes from neighborhood merchants
• Craft activities for kids
• Refreshments and cake generously provided by hospitality sponsor Price Chopper
The newly renovated Delaware Branch Library will be a true jewel in this vibrant neighborhood. The exterior of the beautiful Prairie architecture-style building at 331 Delaware Avenue retains its distinctive appearance. The interior, however, has been completely renovated to house a fully modern, yet warm and welcoming, neighborhood library. The $4.7 million library renovation project was designed by CS Arch, built by Bunkoff General Contractors, and managed by the Dormitory Authority of New York State.
The new 9,500-square-foot Delaware Branch Library features:
• 35,000-piece collection of new books, DVDs, CDs, audio books, magazines, and more
• 16 public access computers and building-wide Wi-Fi
• Separate spaces and computers for adults, teens, and children
• One community meeting room and three small-group study rooms
• Energy efficient and cost effective “green” systems and construction
• Beautiful, cozy common areas and comfortable seating
Albany Public Library is renovating and building five new neighborhood libraries as part of the $29.1 million Branch Improvement Plan approved by voters in February 2007. The Pine Hills branch opened in November. The Delaware branch will open by the end of December. The Howe, Bach, and Arbor Hill/West Hill branches are expected to open in the spring.