The Library has undergone a complete renovation that has transformed it into a true 21st Century public learning environment
By: Arlene Torres
The city of Downey has held on Saturday, May 22, a small ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the city library re-opening, after more than two years, -778 days to be exact-, of being closed.
The newly renovated Downey City Library has something for everyone. The design is modern and innovative for the growing technological advancements of this generation. From the entrance, the modern sleek look welcomes visitors.
There is a digital scanner checking temperatures to ensure that everyone walking in is complying with the Covid-19 safety measures.
In order to ensure the safety of visitors they have taken many steps to adhere to social distancing rules, such as spacing out work areas and updating check out procedures.
Inside is equipped with self-check-out machines that can check out multiple books at a time and requires little to no help from an attendant.
Some of the improvements include reconfigured interior spaces, replacement of interior finishes, new books and data storage furniture, installation of energy efficient lighting, and ADA Improvements.
There is also a mobile circulation gadget that has a catalog of all the books in the library, making searching for books easier than ever. The app was created by Andrew Despres and is the first of its kind.
This app allows library aids to quickly find books on an ipod and check out guests’ materials straight from the stacks.
Library director, Dan Martin tells us they are working on creating an app from which users could search and check out books from their own personal cell phones.
Some of the most impressive services provided by this library are not only at the check-out but with the study and creative support that the establishment offers.
Located inside its own room in the library there is a photography studio, which can be used to make multimedia projects, film and photography alike.
There is a green screen, projector and studio lighting thus making this the perfect outlet for someone interested in creative media projects. This studio can be booked with an appointment by anyone with a library card and is free of charge.
Another pioneering service this library offers is 3D printing. This technology creates three dimensional solid objects from just a digital image file. There is training, which is required to operate the printer, however it is provided in house from the library for the user’s convenience.
Other services that are offered are reading and language classes for adults and children at no cost along with enrichment for families through live readings of books and study rooms.
The officials who cut attended the ceremony were; Vice-Mayor Blanca Pacheco, Mayor Claudia Frometa, Library Director Ben Dickow and Administrator Ben Martin.
Currently the facility is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00am until 6:00pm, and Friday through Saturday 10:00am until 5:00pm. All persons from any city are welcome to obtain a Downey Public Library card, with as little as an ID.
It is expected that by mid-June they will increase the capacity from fifty percent to allow greater access safely to guests.
Adress: 11121 Brookshire Ave, Downtown Downey.
