According to information provided by Parkland Community Library, the facility at 4422 Walbert Ave., South Whitehall, will undergo a major interior design.

The library will be closed Nov. 30 to Jan. 9, 2016. This also includes the North Whitehall Township book drop.

The virtual library at parklandlibrary.org to contact librarians, conduct research via digital databases and download e-materials will still be available.

The redesign includes:

·Dedicated private space for computers, printers and laptops;

·Additional and improved space for teens, including lounge furniture for them to hang out with friends or classmates;

·Event space for children, teens and adults; and

·Increase customer service efficiency by introducing a public self checkout system.

“We are responding to changes in technology and culture that affect how we connect, discover and grow,” said Debbie Jack, executive director. “Community input during our strategic plan highlighted our physical space as a key asset. We listened.

“These spaces will enhance our ability to deliver better experiences for visitors of all ages.

“In an ever-changing world of information, the Parkland Community Library plays an increasingly vital role in the lives of those who live and work in the community.

“Library usage has been growing and changing significantly in recent years.”

People visit the library for meeting space and collaborative work as much as they do for access materials, Jack said.

“This project aims to reinvent what a public library can aspire to be,” Jack stated. “More than the renovation of outdated and underutilized spaces, the project will adapt physical areas in the library to the changing needs of users including better seating, new carpeting and paint, and access to technology throughout.”

Jack said the design for the new library was done by architect J.R. Keller of Philadelphia.

Carpet will be from Consolidated Carpet Mills, windows by ABE Windows, front door and two side doors by Adams Glass, electrical and wiring by Thomas Hoffman, furniture by J.P. Jay, blinds by Lehrman and Lehrman and paint by Ted Lopsonski Painting, all of Allentown, Jack said. “Although we are making positive changes to our existing space, Parkland Community Library is still in need of more space due to 9,000 items in storage and limited parking.

“The renovation will create an improved experience for our community, but a larger space is necessary to best serve all 54,000 residents.”

For more information about the library’s renovation plans and to keep-up-to-date on progress, visit parklandlibrary.org.