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Menlo library to close for month some time in May for renovation

by Barbara Wood

Menlo Park's library will close for up to a month starting some time in May to install new carpeting, remodel the circulation area and ready the library for a new radio frequency identification (RFID) check-out system.

The City Council approved the project at its March 13 meeting, yet the exact dates of the closure had not been made public by the Almanac's press time.

Library Director Susan Holmer told the Almanac that she is working on a press release and "FAQs" — frequently asked questions — which should be available by early this week.

According to a report made to the council by Ruben Nino, assistant director of public works, the library carpeting has not been replaced since 1991. The new carpeting will be installed in the form of tiles so worn areas can more easily be replaced, Mr. Nino reported.

The upgrades to the circulation area, which were approved in 2006, will make it easier for patrons to check out their own items and improve the staff work areas, he said.

The RFID system will offer the library more security and ease of checkout, and better inventory control, Mr. Nino reported. The system will be purchased and installed by the county library system.

The carpet replacement is expected to cost about $115,000, while the remodeling of the circulation area will cost another $90,000, Mr. Nino's report says.