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Overcast New West End Library branch set to open
After nearly three years of ongoing discussions and delays, the Long Beach Public Library will open the doors of its new West End branch on June 24, followed by a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, June 27, at 11 a.m.
The new branch, at 903 W. Beech St., will feature updated technology including four computers, two iMacs, a printer, scanner, copier, fax machine and a crayon kiosk — a station containing three iPads for children. There will also be a selection of movies available to rent in addition to books. Not all of the equipment may be available on opening day, according to Library Director George Trepp.
Library Board President Carol Arnone said the branch was designed to be a meeting place in the community where West End residents could come and socialize.
“We want all of them to come by and make it a part of their lives,” she said. “Whether or not they borrow a book or movie, we want people to come by and say hi.” She added that there will be programming for people of all ages including story time for young children as well as lectures and seminars for senior citizens.
The previous branch, at 810 W. Beech St., suffered extensive damage during Hurricane Sandy when flooding destroyed stacks of books and furniture. Though the building was repaired months later, the library board allowed the lease to lapse in February 2014. Members of the community — particularly the West End Neighbors Civic Association — continually petitioned the board until they approved a new facility last fall.
According to WENCA president John Bendo, the board was initially hesitant to re-open the branch saying that circulation had been declining steadily before the storm, and there didn’t seem to be a need for it. However, Bendo argued that the old branch did not feature any new technology or amenities and operated on short hours that often limited residents’ ability to use it.
“It was closed by the time I got home from work,” he said. “I never set foot in the place.”
