Normal Public Library reopens after 16-month renovation

Image Courtesy of Illinois State University

NORMAL, Ill. – After 16 months of rebuilding and relocating, the Normal Public Library reopened on Tuesday.

Patron Experience Manager Laura Golaszewski shared why the library reopened, gave details on their renovations and why libraries are important to the community.

“The majority of my work is making sure that when people come into the library, they have a great customer service experience and that all of our staff are supported in that effort,” said Golaszewski. 

Renovations were prompted by the discovery of asbestos in the building.

After closing in March 2024, Golaszewski said that they wanted to remodel both halves of the building to match each other. Some of the renovations that took place included stripping down walls and bringing the library back to its original structure before building it back up.

The renovations spanned 16 months, during which the Normal Public Library operated out of a former bank building across the street to continue serving the community.

Golaszewski said that new spaces will be included in the renovation, like lighting, furniture and more study spaces for college students in the area. 

The library will feature new technology and creative tools such as a tinker studio, sublimation printer, Cricut machine, sewing machines and an embroidery machine. 

“We thought it was within our mission to provide space and access to those technologies for our community members,” said Golaszewski. “Our goal is to provide a way for community members to have access to those technologies and machines without having to purchase them.” 

The building will also prioritize more studying spaces, to accommodate the large student population in the Bloomington-Normal area. The library’s discovery room will include an Everbright board, a Lego wall and a nursing lounge to better serve children and families.

Golaszewski said libraries are valuable to everyone, whether academic or not, and serve as a cornerstone of communities.

The building reopened to the public on Tuesday, September 16th.