APPLETON, WI (WTAQ) – The Appleton Public Library is beginning its move to a temporary location on Wednesday.
Renovations are starting this summer, but Library Director Colleen Rortvedt says they can’t begin until books are moved to the temporary spot along South Kensington Drive.
“We have to shut doors and start the complicated moving part,” Rortvedt told WTAQ News. “We’re still providing service in the building while we’re trying to kind of figure out how to situate everything to be ready to go for the movers.”
Professional movers are scheduled to arrive on Monday, and Rortvedt says their staff has been planning and preparing for an easier transition.
“[There are] Probably 100 mini-projects within the the overall project of getting ready for the temporary library, but everything’s going really well,” Rortvedt said. “A big part of what we need to do is internet access, and our network needs to be up and running in the new location…Primarily collections and access to computers and there’ll be some space for seating – for moving from about 86,000 square feet to 25,000 square feet, we had to make some choices.”
Rortvedt points out that organization is key, especially when it comes to moving the books.
“Can’t get them completely out of order you’re gonna end up rearranging 250,000 items when you get to the new location. We’ve got a game plan and things are working out really well,” Rortvedt said.
The library is expected to open at the temporary location on May 23rd. There, visitors will be able to check out materials, use computers, access the internet, utilize public seating/work areas and get one-on-one help with staff members for local history, small business and job connection inquiries.
But during the move and transition, that’s not necessarily the case.
“We’re part of a really wonderful library system. So you can place a hold and have things picked up at other libraries. It’s a really great opportunity to visit some other libraries in our community too,” Rortvedt added.
The library is expected to be housed at the temporary location for 18 months.
“We’ll be having some external book drops. They’re not out yet, but there will be a point where people will be able to return their items. We’re gonna have one positioned downtown during the construction as well,” Rortvedt said.
Groundbreaking for the $30 million renovation downtown is expected to take place in the summer. The renovated library is expected to reopen in fall 2023.
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