The Normal Public Library will reopen its doors on Friday, July 25, following a $6.5 million renovation and asbestos abatement project that closed the main facility for nearly 16 months.
Located at 206 W. College Ave., the library has undergone extensive interior and exterior upgrades, including new lighting, flooring, and furniture, along with revitalized community spaces like the Children’s Discovery Room. New additions include a nursing lounge and an all-ages makerspace called the Tinker Studio.
The renovation followed the discovery of delaminating asbestos-containing fireproofing in the 1973 section of the building, prompting a full abatement and redesign to modernize the space while maintaining its original architecture.
To allow for a smooth transition back into the main building, public services will pause beginning Friday, July 18. Limited services such as off-site programming and curbside pickup will continue, and staff will remain available by phone at 309-452-1757.
Some areas, including the Community Room and Tinker Studio, will open later this fall once final furniture and technology arrive. For updates, visit www.normalpl.org/planning.
