Long Beach Library turns a page

The Long Beach public library has limited the number of patrons during the coronavirus pandemic, but it has been busy planning a new edition for itself.

The library’s Director Tara Lannen-Stanton said that the library hasn’t been vastly updated since 1997, including after Superstorm Sandy.

Now, however, the staff and administration have reorganized some parts of the library in the first steps of a major update. The current renovations included removing the large reference table on the first floor, removing wooden panels off the bookshelves, paint touch-ups and updating the children’s room on the second floor to create more space.

“I think we were able to achieve something that feels new, without really being all that new,” Lannen-Stanton said. “Just a little facelift.”

The reorganization, Lannen-Stanton said, did not cost the library much, but added that many patrons have positively responded to changes.

“Everyone from new patrons to patrons, who have been coming here for 50 plus years, really loved the renovations,” Lannen-Stanton said. During the pandemic, the library issued hundreds of new library cards for new patrons.

The library staff are currently limiting patrons to 30 minutes and have created easier ways to borrow books, including a self-checkout. They have also purchased large glass barriers.

“I think we took advantage of the disruption caused by Covid to give a much-needed updating to the facility,” Sam Pinto, president of the Library’s Board of Trustee said. “It’s been a tough time, but the leadership has decided to take this and move forward.”