We hosted a “virtual” groundbreaking on Wednesday, September 7 for our upcoming adult library, The Hub. The first floor renovations will include:  enhanced and expanded technology; comfortable seating to relax and read; more space for informal and formal learning; improved meeting and classroom space; a new community room for programs and events; and a wonderful café in the heart of White Plains.

“Through the creation of the The Trove children's library, The Edge teen space and now The Hub, as well as their innovative programming and offerings, the White Plains Public Library has proven that libraries are as relevant and important today as ever,” said Mayor Thomas Roach in his remarks at the ceremony.

About sixty people attended groundbreaking, including Mayor Roach, members of the White Plains Common Council, Senators George Latimer and Andrew Stewart-Cousins, Assemblyman David Buchwald, and Assemblywoman Amy Paulin. There were joined by library trustees, members of White Plains Library Foundation, and many individual donors as well as community partners.

Hub construction will begin this fall. During renovations, the first floor will continue to provide circulation services, as well as access to The Edge and the adult fiction collection. The most popular collections—new books, DVDs, and music—will move to the auditorium on the second floor, along with librarian staff for the duration of renovations.

Photo caption: White Plains Library Foundation Board President Diane Tabakman, Assemblyman David Buchwald, Senator George Latimer, Mayor Thomas Roach, Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Assemblywoman Amy Paulin, White Plains Council Member Milagros Lecuona “break ground” for The Hub at White Plains Public Library on September 7, 2016. Photo by Stephen E. Morton.