By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
The Ellis Public Library is set to modernize and refresh its space with a new look this month.
Ellis Public Library Director Tracey Andrews said the upgrades focus primarily on replacing the building's outdated HVAC system, along with other long-needed improvements.
"We're getting some electrical work done, new walls, paint and the bathroom has been updated," she said.
Additional upgrades include new insulation and the replacement of several windows, including the two large front windows at the entrance.
Andrews said construction began on March 9 and is expected to be completed by April 17. An open house is set for April 22, where the community can see and celebrate the library's new look.
Visitors can enjoy doughnuts, coffee and a "surprise" from 10 to 11 a.m. Visitors can also grab a hot dog, cookie and drink from 4 to 7 p.m. that same day, provided by the Friends of the Ellis Library.
As part of National Library Week, Andrews said a book sale will run from April 19 to April 22 in the library's back room.
"The bones of the building are fantastic, but these are just basic updates that we need to get done for it," she said.
Andrews said renovations have temporarily disrupted some services, such as weekly coffee gatherings and book club meetings, which have been moved from the library.
However, she said the library has remained partially open, continuing to offer book checkout, public computers and limited activities. All programs will return once construction is complete.
"I call it the itty bitty library for now because we have tarps up, and it's all kind of blocked off, but there's still space for community members to come in and visit," Andrews said.
Andrews said the building was originally constructed in the 1960s as a post office and has not undergone renovations to this scale in decades. The building became the city's library in the 1980s after moving out from the basement of the railroad museum next door.
The project was made possible through community funding, including a $30,000 grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and about $52,000 from the Community Foundation of Ellis.
"We're really excited for all these changes for the community and look forward to it being done," Andrews said. "If the community can show us some grace and bear with us for a couple more weeks, it'll be a place for everyone to enjoy."
The library's construction hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, and 2 to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
You can follow the Ellis Public Library on Facebook for updates.