A major project at the Manitowoc Public Library is nearly complete.
The Library has been working on updating its business center for the better part of three months, and the project is in its final stages.
Back in October, library staff created a temporary business center as they prepared to get new computers and furniture for the space.
Executive Director Karin Adams tells us the project was a long time coming.
“Last year, around summertime…we submitted a grant to the West Foundation for New furniture, new technology, and all aspects, which include electrical and data, and new carpeting for our business center,” Adams revealed.
She said the project was much needed as a majority of what was in there was original to the building, which was constructed in 1998.
The grant request was approved by the West Foundation, allowing the library to begin work on the project.
“Now we have the funding outside of the taxpayer and operations budget. This is all separate,” she noted. “We’re able to completely redo that area and get all updated furniture and computers.”
All of the furniture came from Demco Inc. out of Madison, which specializes in library furnishings, while the computers were ordered through the same portals that the City uses for its tech needs.
The furniture actually arrived early last week, which Adams says has really allowed the renovation to kick into high gear.
“Now that that’s here, things can go a little faster,” she explained. “It just takes time to get all of that set up, make sure it’s working properly now that it’s plugged in.”
Adams estimated that the newly renovated business center should be fully operational by the end of the month.
