It's a new chapter at the Budimir Library in south Windsor.
On Friday, city officials and staff celebrated the newly renovated and expanded branch on Grand Marais Rd. W.
The $3.5-million project includes more space — about 6,000 square feet more, more resources and a technology hub.
CEO Kitty Pope says Budimir is the second busiest branch in the city and the old space was cramped.
"Prior to this expansion, people virtually sat on each other's laps, it was so busy, there are lots of students in this area, lots of high school students and university students."
She says staff at the branch deserve a lot of credit during the renovation period which began in April 2019.
"During renovations we did not miss one day, we were open every single day so it became a real struggle for staff just to make sure that parts of the building were cordoned off."
The expansion project at the Budimir Library branch includes 6,000 square feet of more space. February 14, 2020 (Photo by AM800's Teresinha Medeiros)
Pope says the additional space will make it more comfortable for patrons and staff.
"We knew more than anything the community wanted study, reading, programming space and a larger collection because that is a big deal, especially video and those kinds of resources."
Budimir Library first opened in 1965 and is the third oldest branch in the city.