Muhundro gives SanCap Lions update on ‘Your Library Reimagined’
Sanibel Public Library Executive Director Margaret Muhundro provided an update on the “Your Library Reimagined” project at the June 20 meeting of the Sanibel Captiva Lions Club.
As the guest speaker, she explained that the library was built 25 years ago and the computer lab was added 12 years ago. Obsolete infrastructure and responding to the ever-changing needs of users are two areas the library board of commissioners analyzed when it started planning for the upgrade in 2015.
“It’s our goal to be finished in early fall, but there will be an announcement when we know for sure,” Muhundro said.
The project includes rearranging the floor plan for greater service and more modular options. There will be behind-the-scenes remodeling to maximize efficiency and lower operating costs, plus functional updates to public and staff spaces.
The improvements include larger windows to maximize the natural light and views; four new study rooms; enhanced catalog searching with more material to borrow; digital signage; two computer labs with the fastest Internet available; a flexible Maker Space; mobile shelving and furniture that can be moved to host large events; and updated spaces for youths, plus revised outdoor courtyard space.
There will also be a new Archives Room with digitization capabilities for easier scanning of photos. A bike-up and walk-up book drop off box will be added. Muhundro said the expanded reading porch has a lot of library patrons excited.
“You can now sit out there quietly, without the several loud air conditioning units kicking on,” she said.
Lions also learned the library has been recognized as one of the best in the country and was named a five-star library by the Library Journal, which awards rankings to 260 libraries out of more than 7,000 nationwide.
“It’s all due to the support of our community, which we appreciate,” Muhundro said. “We must also contribute the library’s success to our great staff.”
The next meeting will be held on July 18 with cocktails and appetizers at 6 p.m., followed by dinner catered by the Sanibel Catering Co. at 7 p.m. The guest speaker is Kristie Anders, education director of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation. Visiting Lions and any others interested are welcome.
Anyone interested in becoming a Lion can contact membership chairman Lion Steve Schulz at stevenschulz@comcast.net or 239-233-6261. For more information, visit sanibelcaptivalions.org.