PITTSTON — For the first time in three weeks, the Pittston Memorial Library is open for business.

After a $1.5 million construction project which started in November 2014, the library on Broad Street is back to full operation. Library director Ann Hogya said the entire library is open with the exception of the conference room.

The reason the library was closed is because the staff needed to move the books to new parts of the library, Hogya said. She said it was a difficult task, however, the books are ready for the public.

“The staff worked very hard and we had several volunteers help us move the books,” Hogya said. “It would be a disaster if we put things in the wrong places.”

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The library closed its doors on Thursday, July 9 as final work is completed on the new children’s wing, named the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Center, and the community room, known as the John P. Cosgrove Center.

The community room will be finished in a short time as the construction workers are still setting concrete on the building.

“The new children’s room is open and the community room will be open soon,” Hogya said.

The library was expected to open on Monday, July 20, however, the project was delayed. The Pittston Memorial Library will hold a special grand opening on Saturday, Aug. 15 to celebrate the new additions.

The expansion was part of a 5,175-square-foot addition which includes a children’s wing, a community conference meeting room that will hold 125 people, plus other library features.

“The place is totally amazing,” Hogya said. “You can’t believe how happy, fun and vibrant everything is. It’s a true community space with lots to offer.”

Construction is almost complete on the Pittston Memorial Library expansion project. The PML re-opened its doors on Wednesday, July 29 after being closed for nearly three weeks.
http://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/web1_SD_Pittston-Library-Construction_41.jpg.optimal.jpgConstruction is almost complete on the Pittston Memorial Library expansion project. The PML re-opened its doors on Wednesday, July 29 after being closed for nearly three weeks. Bill Tarutis | For Sunday Dispatch

By Nick Wagner

nwagner@timesleader.com

Reach Nick Wagner at 570-991-6406 or on Twitter @Dispatch_Nick