Columbia Library breaks ground for upcoming expansion

Helmets and shovels standing ready for the groundbreaking

The Columbia Public Library broke ground Sunday afternoon to mark the official kick-off of a $2.5 million expansion and renovation project.  Construction will take about nine months to complete. The expansion will provide more space for the library’s book collection, as well as extra meeting space for the community’s use. 

A new reading terrace will overlook Locust Street Park. The project also will expand the children’s area and circulation areas and provide additional support facilities for staff and designated areas for art displays.

The existing building on South 6th Street was built in 1960 next to Park Elementary. The last expansion was done in 1973.

About 75 people attended the event.

Spencer, the library mascot, attended the event.

Students from Our Lady of the Angels collected pennies for the project.

A wheelbarrow of pennies

The groundbreaking

Children did a second groundbreaking - just in case.

Architectural plan of the proposed expansion

Architect's renderings of the project are shown below: