Branch manager welcomes you to new Northside Metro Library

By Adam Hochstetler, Northside Branch Manager, Columbus Metropolitan Library

Oftentimes, when I tell people I’m the manager of Columbus Metropolitan Library’s Northside Branch and explain where it is – 1423 N. High St., tucked between the Short North and south campus – I’m met with surprise. They didn’t know there was a library there.

No longer.

After a yearlong rebuild (and a ribbon-cutting and grand opening celebration on June 22), what was once a small and unassuming brick building has become an iconic 21st century library. Walls of windows illuminate what’s inside: a new community gathering space with more than three times the square footage.

This new library is more than just a home for books; it’s a civic centerpiece that serves a growing and diverse population of customers, including those from Weinland Park, Victorian Village, Italian Village and the University District.

A larger children’s space welcomes families for Ready for Kindergarten Story time and other programs focused on early literacy. It also features a special Ready for Kindergarten area where preschoolers and their families can get a feel for what it’s like in a classroom setting – and for the technology they’re likely to find there. A dedicated Homework Help Center gives K-12 students a welcoming and inspiring place to come for after-school help from staff and volunteers.

Teens now have their own area with computers and a collection of books just for them. Plus, the new branch has more public computers, a technology-equipped Learning Lab for adult classes, three large meeting rooms free to reserve, a large quiet room, several small study rooms, a reading loft overlooking High Street and a café offering pastries, coffee and more.

With plenty of comfortable seating and wide open views of North High Street – not to mention free WiFi – we welcome you to bring your laptop, tablet or smartphone, stay a while and read a book, interact with our helpful staff and be inspired.

Stop in, say hi!

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