A customer picks up new materials using the Main Library's new drive-up window. (Tuscarawas County Public Library System)

NEW PHILADELPHIA - Tuscarawas County Public Library System officials are updating the community on the progress of a renovation and expansion project happening at Main Library in New Philadelphia.

Director Michelle McMorrow Ramsell says the project is now entering the final stages, with crews now focusing on improving the adult, teen, and children's areas, creating new public meeting spaces and putting the finishing touches on the exterior of the building. Ramsell says the library will continue operating out of the newly-renovated lobby area, with the adult and children's departments closed to the public. She thanks patrons for their continued patience. 

"Our four-phase renovation and expansion project has been a big undertaking, and we appreciate our customers being understanding and flexible throughout the process. There has been a lot of change happening rapidly," she says.

Support Services Manager Cara Randall says they will continue to fill the lobby with the items customers seek most frequently. 

"It will be tight quarters, but the lobby will be packed with materials for all ages that include the newest and most popular books, movies, magazines, and newspapers. Since our library is part of a statewide consortium, customers will also be able to reserve materials they may not find available in our lobby," she says. 

She says patrons can also reserve materials online and pick their items up at the Main Library's new drive-up window. 

Ramsell says the library will continue to schedule appointments for passport and notary services, with programs like their fall storytimes held at offsite locations.

"Our goal during the final months of the renovation is the same goal we always have – to give our customers the best library experience possible," she says.

A complete list of upcoming programs and their locations can be found in the library's Between the Lines fall programming guide. For project information and updates, visit www.tusclibrary.org or call 330-364-4474.