The Peoria Public Library Board of Trustees will open Peoria Public Library McClure Branch at a 10:00 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, January 7.

After a ceremony with short remarks, the public is invited to come inside and begin using the newly remodeled and repaired branch. This grand opening falls one day short of the building’s first opening on January 8, 1937.

The branch has been refurbished and repaired and upgraded with all the same technologies as other Peoria Public Library locations. Although the building could not be expanded as it sits in a flood plain, users will note that the signs of wear of 75 years have been erased and interior spaces thoughtfully rearranged to eliminate the previous cluttered look.

The brick exterior has been cleaned and returned to its former attractive look. Inside radiators have been eliminated and every window now has a window seat where readers can curl up with a good book or laptop. With wifi throughout the building and study tables with power outlets, as well as six public computers, access is available to the Internet for all. Catalog-only computers, self-check stations and information desks are located both upstairs and down. Outside there are 20 parking spots.

Construction costs totaled just under $600,000 for the 4,270 square foot building which closed February 19, 2011 for remodeling. While construction was complete, a problem with delivery of shelving created a delay in reopening the building.

McClure Branch, known when it first opened as “the East Bluff Branch” was built on land donated by the Peoria School Board and cost $20,000 to build. The separate children’s room in the basement did not open until the next October. Crowds flocked to a January 29th evening open house hosted by the Library Trustees. According to newspaper reports of the day, visitors marveled at the new hot water heat system that was assured to keep the temperature stable and patrons comfortable.

One of the latest innovations was “anti-glare lighting” and everyone was pleased with the curtains. Curtains were exciting because they eliminated, “flapping roller shades that suddenly slip and rocket to the top with a fearful rattle, frightening the patrons.” Window shade technology has come a long way and McClure Branch now features the latest technology in window shades as well.

Hours for McClure Branch will be Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.