The overhaul of the Massapequa Public Library system, funded by a $3 million bond approved by local taxpayers, is nearing completion, as work crews put the finishing touches on renovations to the Central Avenue branch.

The bond has funded a refurbishment of both branches of the Massapequa Library system, with improvements at the Bar Harbour building finished last fall, and the completion of the Central Avenue building expected for next month.

The Central Avenue building will re-open for service Monday, Nov. 6 for service, Bill Serynek, director of Massapequa Public Library announced last week. "It's been a long time, but now Central Avenue patrons can return to a new building with many new features," Serynek said.

According to Serynek, Central Avenue patrons will see an improved, centrally located circulation desk, a special Audio Visual (AV) room for CD, DVD and video items, a quiet room for study and research, and an overall brighter, more comfortable environment.

Serynek noted that there might be a slight delay in the opening of the new computer room. Because of the recent Verizon strike, a T-1 line, needed for fast Internet connections, will not be installed until late October. In the meantime, patrons can continue to use the Bar Harbour computers, he noted.

The director said the library appreciates the patience shown by its Central Avenue patrons. "We know it's been a long wait," he said. "The Library Board and staff are pleased they can now welcome you all back starting November 6."

Last November, the Massapequa Library System re-dedicated its Bar Harbour branch, after an extensive facelift and expansion there.

That portion of the bond project brought the Bar Harbour building a new computer room, quiet room, children's room, audio visual room and magazine display area. In addition, the circulation desk was enhanced and relocated.

Renovations at Central began in September, 1999. During the construction period, that building was closed, and all Massapequa library patrons used the Bar Harbour building.

In 1999, the Massapequa Library System had the third highest circulation of all libraries in Nassau County, and more than half of the approximately 48,000 residents in the Massapequa School district were registered users.