Public works employees recently installed a new beam at the township library. Updates are happening inside and outside the facility.
The Deptford library has undergone renovations in the past few weeks that will update and modernize the facility.
Since its current home on Ward Drive first opened in the 1980s, the library’s appearace has remained largely the same. The hope is that renovations to the building – originally home to the township’s senior center – will bring the libary renewed attention. The project is a joint effort between the library and the township.
“The president of the (library) board of trustees (Dina Zawadski) said that things we’re getting a little tired looking,” said Mayor Paul Medany. “We’re improving the physical look of the library in order to modernize it. We want to attract more patrons.”
Renovations will update both the inside and outside of the library, with the bulk of the work being done by the township public works department.
“The … department has been doing a fantastic job with their work,” Medany noted. “We love the library and it’s an essential part of the community.”
According to its website, the library is home to roughly 60,000 books and 4,400 DVDs and has 6,000 active members. It is also home to programs and events for kids and adults alike.
“The Deptford free public library is an essential and vital community resource,” the website states, “connecting people with ideas, with each other and with solutions that change their lives.”
The library will remain open while renovations continue. The new work follows updates made to the facility’s restrooms in 2023 and renovations to move office space and add a computer lab in 2024.
“You can learn how to use a computer, rent a book out and so much more at the library,” said Medany. “It’s a hidden jewel in the community.”
