Patrons and library staff can let out a collective breath as the downtown branch (finally) reopens. Starting April 14, YDL-Michigan welcomes back patrons after lengthy repairs for water damage.
The building at 229 W. Michigan Avenue in the heart of downtown Ypsilanti closed in July 2023 after a major storm caused significant water damage. Various supply chain and logistical delays extended the work for much longer than anticipated.
YDL has now been granted a temporary certificate of occupancy, and some work on the entrance will continue before and after library hours.
“Being unable to serve our downtown patrons during this unexpected closure was simply heartbreaking,” YDL Director Lisa Hoenig said. “Despite all the delays our team never gave up, and we’re coming back better than ever.”
During the first few weeks back, YDL is celebrating with a “soft” reopening in a variety of ways, with plans for a larger summer celebration once the work is complete. For a limited time, patrons who check out five or more items at one time will be given a special book bag. We’ll have paper hearts to write library love notes, and other collective activities. You can also participate in a special scavenger hunt and make your own button to celebrate being back in the downtown library.
“Our staff is thrilled to reopen and we are looking forward to welcoming you back to enjoy our new and improved spaces,” Branch Manager Katie Dover-Taylor said.
A larger Back on the Block (BOTB) celebration will be part of our Summer Challenge Kickoff June 7. BOTB is sponsored by the Ypsilanti Downtown Development Authority and Bank of Ann Arbor.
Patrons will notice some changes inside the downtown branch. Dover-Taylor is the new Branch Manager after Joy Cichewicz retired in February. Updates to the space include three new group study rooms, a laptop lounge with a street view, and a reimagined youth space downstairs.
“We took the opportunity to improve the building, and I’m confident everyone will love the changes!” said Hoenig.