Upgrades Will Include New Carpet, Furniture and Additional Computers
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., August 2, 2017 — The Jacksonville Public Library will temporarily suspend service at the Brentwood Branch Library starting Aug. 14 to replace carpet, furniture, and add six new computers. The branch is expected to reopen late September or early October; updates will be provided on the library’s website and social media channels. In addition to the replacement of all carpet, which is being funded by a combination of Community Development Block Grants and State Aid funds, the City of Jacksonville Public Buildings Division is funding a full asbestos abatement of the building.
When the renovation is complete, the branch will be reorganized. The second floor, currently not fully utilized, will house services for adults including library materials and public computers. The first floor will be dedicated to serving children and teens.
The book drop at the Brentwood Branch Library will remain closed during this time; however, customers may return materials to any library location. Customers who have placed library materials on hold, and have holds that become ready for pick up, will be sent to Dallas Graham Branch Library, 2304 Myrtle Ave. N., for the duration of the closure.
Customers are encouraged to visit any of the system’s 20 other locations throughout Jacksonville during this period, and should always take advantage of the library’s online resources at jaxpubliclibrary.org.
About the Brentwood Branch Library
The Brentwood Branch Library opened in the 9,200 square foot Brentwood Theatre building in 1961 to replace the 1,200 square foot Springfield Library. The last major renovation occurred in 1996 when the branch closed to update the restrooms and entrance and add an elevator.
Brentwood and the Urban Core libraries’ hours were reduced by budget cuts in 2012. Since restoring the hours in 2015 to provide six-day service, the Urban Core libraries (Brentwood, Brown Eastside, Dallas Graham and Westbrook) have had the greatest growth. Brentwood itself has experienced triple-digit increases in visitors.
About the Jacksonville Public Library
The mission of the Jacksonville Public Library is to enrich lives, build community and foster success by bringing people, information and ideas together. Last year, more than 3.4 million visits were made to Jacksonville Public Libraries, items were checked out more than 5.7 million times, and over 13,000 programs and services were offered to Duval County residents at the Main Library and 20 branch locations. For more information about the Jacksonville Public Library, call 630-BOOK (2665) or visit jaxpubliclibrary.org.