My City June 2022

MYDOWNTOWN

Continued from pg. 22 

e new library boasts “more of everything” for its patrons. “We added nearly 16,000 square feet of space for learning and growth,” Schwartz states. In the new FPL, the Children’s Learning Center and Digital Learning spaces have been doubled, an additional 16 meeting rooms were added of all diƒerent sizes and functionalities, a new area (bottom oor) has been designated for local history and genealogy, a pro gram room (the Conroy Room) was added for story time and other activities and in a new digital studio (opening in July), patrons can produce podcasts and other digital media. Food is now both permitted (with restrictions) and available (vending) at the library with fully-functioning kitchenettes designated for certain meeting rooms. To increase the facility’s energy eŒciency, a brand-new HVAC system was installed along with more eƒective insulation. All water in sinks and drinking fountains is “ltered by a reverse-osmosis system. In addition to space additions, the FPL has upgraded functionality including new self-checkout machines, a new page- and document-scanning system, meeting room monitors and display projectors, and the ability to check out and use in-library laptop computers. e design is fun, colorful and full of light – a perfect place for a child or adult to learn and grow. e new FPL truly re…ects Flint’s current and ongoing evo lution as the city parts ways with the hardships of the past and embraces a brighter future. “ e old building was beginning to break down. It was aging,” says Schwartz. “In a number of years, it would have been unusable.We wanted to bring something new and amazing to the city. It’s a wonderful place for the people of Flint and everyone should see and make use of it all.” ®

For hours and programming information, visit fpl.info. If you are interested in booking one or more meeting rooms, visit fpl.info/reserve-room or email rooms@fpl.info for more information.

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