The Central Avenue branch of the Massapequa Library system was reopened to the public on Nov. 6, following a renovation that brought such improvements as a new computer room, quiet room and periodical area.

Library patrons returned to a familiar building with a new look, after a new layout was made possible by the removal of a large boiler room. Although no new construction was added to the building, 2,000 square feet was gained by converting space previously used as a boiler room to areas for patron use, and moving administration offices to the Bar Harbor branch. The library was able to eliminate the boiler room by changing from oil heat to gas heat, with the gas burners placed atop the roof.

Through reconfiguring existing space at the Central building, library administration was able to add a quiet room, computer room, new audio visual room, new circulation desk, and a new area for periodicals. In addition to the new rooms, the library received new insulated windows and automatic sliding doors. The building was also redecorated, repainted, and received new carpeting throughout the interior. In addition, book collections were expanded, and computers were added in the children's room and at the librarian desks. To enhance the look of the exterior, new metal trim was added. The overhaul brings the facility up to the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

During an interview at the Central branch last week, Bill Serynek, director of the library, expressed satisfaction with the completion of the renovation, noting that it brings patrons a "more comfortable, user-friendly building."

The reopening of the Central branch was highly anticipated by library staff and the community. The project began in October of last year, and was originally expected to be completed within 6 months. The reopening was pushed back, however, by asbestos removal and mechanical venting problems, as well as this summer's Verizon strike, which delayed the installation of T-1 lines needed for high speed Internet access, according to Serynek. Even as patrons begin to use the new library, a few needed touch-ups are being finished. For example, a newly installed bathroom door is difficult to open, and therefore needs to be fixed.

Serynek noted that he is pleased the project is primarily complete, and thanked patrons for their patience during the delays. "We're happy that the project for the most part is completed. We welcome back our patrons. We appreciate the patience and understanding they have shown," he said. "I hope they enjoy their facility."

Of all the new features, the new computer room brings the most significant benefit to the community, according to Serynek. The room features cutting edge technology, including the highest speed Internet access available today, which is provided by T-1 lines. The computers allow patrons to not only browse the Worldwide Web, but also to communicate with friends and family through email. The library is also now offering computer training sessions for senior citizens, to help the older generations take advantage of the information superhighway. "That's an area that I don't think was being met in the community, and we have met it," said Serynek.

The renovation of the Central branch was financed by a $3 million bond issue, which also funded an overhaul of the Massapequa Library system's other branch, the Bar Harbor building. About three quarters of the funds were used for the Bar Harbor building, which was renovated and expanded, while a quarter went to the refurbishment of Central. The Bar Harbor overhaul was completed last November. According to Serynek, the entire project went about 10 percent over budget, and the extra cost will be paid out of the Massapequa Library system's surplus operating funds, with no extra cost to the taxpayer.

While Central was under renovation, all patrons had been using the Bar Harbor branch. Completion of the renovation project is expected to alleviate the parking situation at Bar Harbor, which had been tight, as many patrons and some staff members return to Central.