Plainfield Public Library’s $2.5M Renovation Nears Finish, Grand Reopening Scheduled

PLAINFIELD, NJ — After delays, the Plainfield Public Library has announced an official grand reopening date of Saturday, June 13, inviting the community back into the space that closed in the fall for significant renovations.Originally set to open December 1 after closing in mid-October, the project had several delays. The last announced delay, in mid-March, did not specify when the opening would be. This week, we learned the date of the celebration.“The celebration will bring together residents, community partners, and local leaders for a ceremonial reopening of the Library’s upgraded facility,” wrote the library in a press release. “The grand reopening begins at 12:00 PM and includes a ribbon-cutting ceremony, background music provided by Plainfield youth, and a self-guided tour highlighting the Library’s new features and expanded services.”The event is free and open to all. For updates, visit www.plainfieldlibrarynj.org or follow the Plainfield Public Library on social media.The $2.5 million renovation project introduces:Flexible community rooms for programming, workshops, and eventsExpanded main-level floor space for reading and collaborationUpgraded technology, including enhanced Wi-Fi and increased public computer accessA new open community plaza, replacing the former interior fountain with a waterfall wall feature to create a more welcoming and functional layoutWhen the Library reopens, patrons will find expanded programming, greater access to community health, education, and training partners, like IT career training with Per Scholas, as well as all the library services like the Young People’s room (which will be open for summer reading), Job Search assistance, ESL, GED, Digital Literacy classes, Local History, and Reference services. All services are free of charge.“Thank you for your patience and support throughout this journey. Completing this project opens a bright new chapter for the Library and for the Plainfield community we cherish,” said Cynthia Slade, President of the Plainfield Public Library Board of Trustees. “We’re truly proud to offer a space that reflects the hopes, needs, and aspirations of our residents—today and well into the future.”Funding for the Library’s improvements and renovations was made possible through two primary sources. These include the Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund administered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, with funds distributed by the New Jersey State Library through its Community Center Digital Connect program, as well as the Plainfield Public Library Endowment Funds. The Grand Reopening Celebration has been privately funded.The Plainfield Public Library is currently closed as construction nears completion. Digital services are available to library cardholders. Books and new library cards are being distributed through curbside pickup, and library programs are being held throughout the city. See the library's virtual calendar for more information.