San Rafael, CA – The Fairfax branch of the Marin County Free Library is closing Aug. 4-16 for the second and final phase of a major renovation project to improve services and make aesthetic upgrades.
Once the project is complete, the library at 2097 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. will showcase renovations to the children’s area, the magazine area and the lobby funded by taxpayer and nonprofit support.
The focus of the second phase of renovation will be creation of a new single desk staffed to address all visitor needs, new computer tables, new check-out station tables, technology upgrades, improved accessibility and easier access to high-demand materials.
During the June renovation, magazines were relocated to be nearer the quiet study area, leaving an area near the children’s room for new children’s books, magazines, displays and seating. New chairs and tables for that area and the children’s room were purchased by Fairfax Friends of the Library. Magazine browsing is more convenient with better displays and consolidated current and back issues. Current events and notices are displayed in the lobby, and shelves are installed to enlarge the space available for the Friends of the Library book sale.
Also part of the June upgrades were an extension of branch hours. Visitors are now welcomed from noon to 5 p.m. Fridays.
During the August renovation, books on hold and Children’s Summer Reading prizes will be available for pickup in the branch’s meeting room from 2-7 p.m. on Aug. 6, 7, 8, 11, 12 and 13. The book drop will remain open throughout the branch closure and free wireless access will remain available. No book donations will be accepted, but donations may be dropped off at the Friends of the Library Book Place at 1608 Grant Ave. in Novato.
With a 20 percent contingency added in, the cost of the renovation is $631,245. Funding comes from Measure A and the Friends of the Fairfax Library. Measure A was passed by a supermajority of voters in 2010 to improve library facilities and maintain hours throughout the Marin County Free Library.
Remember to that other branches of the Marin County Free Library are open as well. For more information about the closure and the remodel, contact the Fairfax Branch Library at 453-8151.