The Main Branch of the St. Joseph County Public Library is now closed as of today. Its last day open was October 31. It’ll be closed for at least a year and a half for a major renovation.
Library spokesperson Jennifer Henecke said there are plenty of other libraries in South Bend and St. Joseph County for people to use during the renovations.
“We have 10 locations which is actually fairly unique for a city of our size to have so many branches. And this is a great opportunity for people to, kind of, explore their own city.”
Debra Szymkowiak was visiting the children’s section with her daughter and granddaughter. She said they’ve been coming for years.
“I just love reading. I think it’s a good thing for kids, bring them to the library, start them out at the library, like we did. When our kids were old enough we got them each a library card.”
Szymkowiak said for now they’re going to a branch library that’s not as close to their home.
“Right now my daughter and the little one there we go to the Francis Branch for now until this library gets done and then we’ll probably be coming back to this one then.”
Ross Havens was doing some research on local sports history in the local and family history section. That’ll be moved to the Keller Park Branch that’s opening at Brown School.
“For me it’s a place where I can come and get a lot of resources for what I want to look into. Also, my wife and I both listen to book CDs. It’s a place to get things to do.”
Havens said until the branch opens in December, he’ll be tackling his honey-do list.
Henecke said the library is excited for the changes. She said they’ll be able to offer more to the community.
“I think it’s going to change what the library is and what we can do for our community.”
The library was built in 1960 and expanded in the early 90s.
The renovation will add more technology and spaces for community meetings. A second building for a Community Learning Center will be added to the campus along Michigan Street. It’s expected to be finished in the summer of 2021.