New carpet, new paint, new furniture, and new computers are all part of the upgrades to the new and improved Waldo Branch. 

One of the most popular branches in the system since it opened in 1988, the Waldo location was closed for more than three weeks for significant updates. 

On Friday, January 3, about 65 patrons were greeted with snacks, drinks, and tarot card readings during the re-opening celebration dubbed "New Year, New Waldo."

“We have received tons of positive feedback from patrons," says Branch Manager MaShonda Harris. "The branch looks very open and clean – a great start to the new year."

Several Library departments supported the $150,000 project from the planning stages to implementation — including the Executive Team, Library Board, Public Affairs, Collection Development, Information Systems, Facilities, Central Sorting, and, of course, the Waldo staff. 

During the renovations from December 9 to January 2, staff at the Waldo location moved materials and kept hold pickups running; Facilities shifted shelves, painted, and worked with construction vendors; IS tested and installed new equipment; Central Sorting handled Waldo material returns; and Collections created a new floor plan. 

“The carpet is by far my favorite — instant improvement," says Harris. "The overall layout is amazing. The sight lines are perfect."

She adds, "Coming into the newly refreshed building has been a nice experience for all of us.” 

Thanks to all the patrons for their patience while the Waldo Branch was closed. We hope you’ll stop by for a visit soon.