The Northampton Area Public Library is going through a rebranding process.

It will culminate with a whole new look this spring.

Library staff and board members formed a rebranding committee in February 2013 to choose a logo and tagline. They also discussed what they'd like to see at the library.

The group considered many logos before selecting a spring designed by graphic designer Alan Zerbe of Bethlehem. The spring signifies growth, symbolizing what the library has in store for its patrons.

"We met and spoke with Alan several times to discuss the library and how we wanted people to think of us, see his ideas, narrow down options, and refine the look," said library Director Melissa Hawk. "The board of trustees voted to adopt the logo and tagline last March and we have been rolling it out slowly."

In addition to a new logo, the group added the tagline "Always Something New" to refer to current bestsellers and newly released DVDs, along with new technology, programs and services, Hawk said.

The library promises to continue discovering, providing access to and assisting patrons with what comes next. The Friends of the Library, an association of citizens focusing on helping the library in various ways, have purchased a lighted sign which will feature the new logo and tagline. It should be installed soon at the library.

Some new things the library has implemented include e-books and independent films for streaming are available using the library's website at www.northamptonapl.org.

With the help of Kutztown University Commercial Design students, the library's website has been modified and updated. Adult classes and informational sessions are now offered as well. The resume writing tool, Cypress Resume, and free access to online courses through Universal Class have been added to the website, thanks to a gift from the Friends group.

Sign-ups are open for various online classes, including an evening computer class at 6 p.m. Wednesdays. Library guests can seek guidance for devices such as Kindle during a class 1:30 p.m. Jan. 2.

The library is also offering an opportunity to participate in a free open discussion Jan. 18 on the Affordable Care Act in Pennsylvania. The seminar came about because a staff member noticed other libraries were offering similar programs. Those interested in learning more about health insurance options can make an appointment through the library this month to meet one-on-one with a certified application counselor.

"One of the things we do is keep the community informed and we provide this information in many forms – books, databases, speakers, etc. The tagline sums up what we do, and what we've always done." said Hawk.

In addition to the adult programs, the library has a number of offerings geared to teens. Among them is a free, after-school program known as Teen Cyber Space through which students aged 12-18 can work on their school assignments with access to tablets and notebooks. All they need to participate is a library card and a signed permission slip.

A Pokemon Club is beginning this month for youth ages 10-16 to discuss Pokemon and trade cards with other fans.

The Board of Advisory Teens, or BOAT, was launched in 2012 in order to plan more activities with teens in mind. BOAT members have designed library floats for Northampton's Jack Frost Halloween parade. They also were instrumental in putting together a Hunger Games Trivia Challenge event on the first two books. It took place in early December.

"The Hunger Games Trivia Challenge was great. The teens had fun and I even stumped them with a few questions," said Hawk.

The library has added a preschool computer station and hosts weekly events such as Story Craft and Seussical Story Time with the Northampton Area High School Drama Club.

A new program known as Wonderful Ones begins in February and will provide a read-and-play opportunity for one-year-olds 10 a.m. Thursdays.

"Our children's librarian, Cheryl DiGiacomo, spoke with some of the parents and realized a need for the Wonderful Ones program. She then researched what other libraries do and came up with a format she felt will fit our patrons' needs," said Hawk.

Additionally, in continuing to deliver what patrons want most, monthly groups are offered for various interests.

Among them are the Civil War discussion group, which meets the third Wednesday of the month, and a book discussion group, which meets the fourth Wednesday.

For those who enjoy needlepoint and crafts, the "Stitch in" group meets the first and third Wednesdays of each month.

New members are always welcome to join any of these groups.

As far as looks go, the library will replace carpets this spring. Northampton Community College Architectural Design students are assisting the library with remodeling to include a whole new floor plan.

The library continues to seek donations of money, materials and supplies and welcomes anyone interested in volunteering.

For more information, contact Hawk at 610-262-7537. Information can also be found on the library Facebook page at www. facebook.com/NorthamptonAPL.

For more information on the Friends group, contact Karen Hein at khein@ northamptonapl.