Moments after the ribbon was cut marking the opening of the Takoma Park Library and Community Center, scores of people lined up to check out books and get library cards.
Although Takoma Park has continued to have a library for its residents, Monday’s opening of a spacious 9,000 square foot building was a dream come true for many of the former and current city officials. Plans for a new library began a decade ago when city officials realized the former building needed renovations.
Besides the expansive 9,000 square foot library, the new facility has a senior room, computer center and recreation area.
“It really has been a labor of love and commitment for the community,” said Mayor Talisha Searcy. She was joined at the ribbon cutting by current and former councilmembers as well as scores of community members.
Opening a library while others throughout the country are banning books “is a testament to who we are in Takoma Park,” said Council President Kate Stewart, who previously served as Takoma Park mayor.
State Senator William Smith Jr. and Delegates David Moon, Lorig Chardoukian and Jheanelle Wilkins spoke at the ribbon cutting. They praised city officials for opening a library where all books are welcome.
Originally opened in 1953 by a local women’s club Takoma Park Library became part of the city government in 1963.
The state provided $3 million of the original estimated $8 million price tag to refurbish the library. Costs climbed during COVID when there were national supply chain issues, but federal funds and grants helped keep the cost down, Searcy said
