LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Construction work is continuing at the Lima Public Library as crews begin both renovation and demolition phases of a project aimed at improving accessibility and visitor amenities.
Workers have removed glass panels from the library's ramps and are in the process of taking down outdoor lighting as part of the ongoing construction effort.
To accommodate the work, the library has temporarily relocated its main entrance to the west side of the building. The entrance can be accessed from the parking lot behind the library off High Street.
Library officials acknowledge that the construction may create temporary inconveniences for visitors, but they say the upgrades will provide long-term benefits for patrons.
"A little bit of inconvenience is really going to bring us more accessibility along the way with the elevator, the universal changing table, and the bathrooms as well. We did move the book drop. We really wanted to keep it accessible to our patrons 24-7. Unfortunately, we were able to make it drive-through accessible because of safety reasons, but we put it along our new sidewalk so that if folks still need to make drops before or after our hours, they still can," said Liz Smith, public relations coordinator for the Lima Public Library.
Among the improvements planned for the facility are a new elevator, updated restrooms and a universal changing table designed to improve accessibility for all visitors.
The library's book drop has also been relocated during construction. While it is no longer accessible by vehicle, officials say it remains available around the clock and can be reached from the new sidewalk.
Smith emphasized that the library remains open during its regular operating hours and encouraged patrons to follow posted signs directing them to the temporary entrance.
