Work has begun at the future site of a three-bay garage and mobile services on the grounds of the Main Library in New Philadelphia. (Submitted photo)

New Philadelphia, Ohio - The first phase of a $5.2 million library renovation project is underway in New Philadelphia. 

In mid-October, crews began staging work areas and excavating the site for a three-bay garage and mobile services on the grounds of the Tuscarawas County Public Library System's Main Library. 

The project is being completed in four phases and also includes the expansion of the current library building, wiring and furnishing upgrades, and the renovation of the existing garage into a multi-purpose public space. The work is expected to take about 12 months to complete, and the library will remain open for the duration of the project.

Although some changes have been made to accommodate the first phase of construction, Library Director Michelle McMorrow Ramsell says that programs and services are unaffected.

"Customers will experience work happening outside, but it will be business as usual once they come inside," she says.

To accommodate the construction during the first phase of the project, the library's book drops have been temporarily relocated to the North Broadway parking lot. The lot will remain open during construction, with access to the building through the back doors. The handicap parking area has also been relocated closer to the patio entrance.

For updates on the project, visit www.tusclibrary.org or follow the Tuscarawas County Public Library System on Facebook.