Sandston Library undergoing renovations

The Sandston Branch Library has closed until November as it undergoes a significant renovation project.

The library, which closed temporarily Sept. 12, already has witnessed the completion of the first phase of the refurbishment, with the addition of new lighting. The previous lighting was replaced with energy efficient fixtures, Henrico Library Community Relations Coordinator Patty Conway told the Citizen.

In addition, Conway said that new carpeting will be added throughout the building, new shelving will be added, upgraded audio-visual equipment will be added to the meeting room, and the building’s interior will receive fresh paint. The additions are similar to those made at other recently renovated library branches in the county.

In total, the renovation will cost Henrico County more than $327,000.

“We will have new white A-frame shelving that will allow for great merchandising, browsing, and a more accessible experience,” Conway said. “The shelves are a little lower to the ground and easier to reach and navigate.”

Sandston Branch Manager Anita Tarbox said in an interview that the library’s landscaping also will be upgraded with new eco-friendly landscaping. Older bushes will be removed and replaced with new shrubs.

“We had a tremendous number of conversations at the desk with different patrons about what to expect,” Tarbox said. “People are very excited about it.”

Sandston Library, the oldest library in the Henrico County Library system, has been continually updated over the years. The first structure was operational from 1923 until 1980, when a new building was constructed in the same location. The new building was partially renovated in 1997 and received a large addition in 2003. Since then, however, no renovations have been made.

“It was certainly Sandston’s turn,” Conway said.

Tarbox encourages Sandston Library patrons to visit either the Fairfield or Varina area libraries while Sandston is closed. Both locations are about eight miles from Sandston.

Additionally, HCPL Mobile Library services come to the Sandston Library parking lot on Fridays from 10 a.m to 2 p.m.

“If folks can’t get to one of the other branches, they can come here,” Tarbox said. “They can pick up holds and talk to staff members from Sandston who can answer any questions and offer normal library services.”