The following is a release from the Clarendon Hills Public Library:

When you turn 50, sometimes you need to have a little work done.

That’s the case for the Clarendon Hills Public Library which is celebrating its 50th year of serving its residents in 2013.

The library's board of trustees has authorized an interior redecoration project which includes new paint and carpeting throughout the building and a reconfiguration of the main floor.

While the renovation is going on, the library will be closed from Monday, Jan. 28, to Monday, March 4.

Here is what residents need to know about the closing:

Will it be possible to place requests for library materials?

Yes. Email requests to info@clarendonhillslibrary.org. Items may be picked up at the Westmont Public Library, 428 N. Cass. Ave. If patrons do not have internet access, they may call the Westmont Library to request items.

What about holds that have already been placed?

All these items may be picked up at the Westmont.

Can library materials be returned to the library during the closing period?

No. Due to storage issues, our outside-accessible book drop will be locked and unavailable while we are closed. You can still return our library items to the other public libraries in our area. These items will be checked in and routed to us once we re-open.

What if library materials are due during the closing period?

Since Friday, Jan. 4, all Clarendon Hills library materials have been assigned a due date of Wednesday, March 6. However, should an item come due during the closing period, patrons may return it to an area public library. It will get back to the Clarendon Hills Public Library and no overdue fees will be charged.

Can items be renewed during the closing period?

If the item is eligible to be renewed, patrons may renew online or email a renewal request to info@clarendonhillslibrary.org.
 
Can the library receive phone calls while it is closed?

No. Unfortunately phones will not be accessible during the renovation process. To contact the library please send an email to info@clarendonhillslibrary.org.

Many residents use the library for its free Internet access.  What other options are available during the closing period?

Internet stations at the Westmont, Hinsdale and Downers Grove libraries are available to Clarendon Hills library card holders.

What if a Clarendon Hills Library card expires during the closing period?

Library staff encourages anyone with a January or February expiration date to come to the library before we close and renew your card (bring ID and library card). However, during the closing period, any SWAN library can renew a recently expired or about to expire card for 2 additional months (bring ID and library card).

What happens to the library programs that were scheduled during the time the library is closed? Can Clarendon Hills residents attend programs at other libraries?

Any CHPL program that had been scheduled during our closed time will be canceled and/or rescheduled. Please check the library’s website, www.clarendonhillslibrary.org for specifics. Some (not all) programs at neighboringlibraries are open to Clarendon Hills residents.  Please check the websites of other area libraries for information on their programs and attendance policies.

How is this renovation being paid for?

The library has saved money for this purpose and is using money from its reserve fund to pay for the renovations. However, this stage only covers interior paint, new carpeting, and a nicer main floor. The library would still love to be able to purchase new furniture and end panels for the Adult Services level and would be thrilled if anyone would like to donate money towards this goal. See the library's website at www.clarendonhillslibrary.org for details.

Why is this renovation project being done?

Responses to the community survey conducted in 2011 frequently mentioned that the library interior looked worn and in need of “freshening up.” In addition, this project will also provide easier access to the library’s most popular materials, provide a quieter and more private space for public computer users, and create a more comfortable and pleasant library for all. For more details on the closing, please log on to www.clarendonhillslibrary.org and click on “Frequently Asked Questions.”