(Colorado Springs, Colo.) Jan. 8, 2024 - To better ensure the safety and security of its staff and patrons, Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) will close Penrose Library for approximately eight weeks starting Thu., Feb. 1 to make numerous safety and security updates throughout the building. While the full project is expected to take the majority of 2024 to complete, the current renovation plan estimates that Penrose Library will only need to be closed during the first stage of the transformation.
PPLD Leadership has determined that a significant investment in the systems, facilities, and resources in use at Penrose Library is paramount for it to serve the growing downtown Colorado Springs community more effectively. The improvements also take into consideration requests from staff and community members to address concerns in the downtown location.
“PPLD is excited to update Penrose Library to improve safety and security for all patrons and staff.” said Michael Brantner, PPLD’s chief safety, community resources & security officer. “Penrose [Library] is a strong part of the downtown Colorado Springs area, and the Library is proud to continue to be a contributing part of this thriving community.”
The Library District has planned several upgrades and initiatives based on careful consideration of what investments are both financially feasible and what will provide the biggest returns in addressing safety and security concerns with a reasonable timeline for completion.
Updates starting in February include shortening and rearranging bookshelves throughout the building to increase visibility and create more room for books and other physical materials. The building must be closed during this process for safety reasons while the shelves are disassembled, sent out for modification, and then reassembled in their new configuration.
The second phase of planned renovations includes installing boulders in strategic locations, creating areas for storing personal belongings short-term, remodeling the computer lab, replacing outlets with a charging station, replacing and rearranging seating and tables, moving staff desks to strategic locations throughout the building, updating all security hardware, and installing fencing under stairwells and around the property’s perimeter.
“Ensuring a safe and secure environment for all to access the Library’s resources and spaces has been and will continue to be at the foundation of Pikes Peak Library District,” said Brantner.