After months of hard work and millions of dollars later, a local library is ready for the public.
The Wilmington Public Library is reopening after a $10.4 million renovation.
The library opens its doors to the public again Tuesday after 18 months of construction.
It now offers an expanded children's area, a lounge for teenagers, a large computer lab and career center and conference rooms. The updates to the 92-year-old building also include new lighting, improved air conditioning and a new handicapped entrance.
Library Director Larry Manuel says some updates were made to accommodate a modern community with an increased use of electronic devices. Also, after an assessment of the usage of the 265,000-item collection, it was reduced by 100,000 items.
The library raised $2.38 million to help pay for renovations through the sale of several N.C. Wyeth paintings. Copies now hang in the library.
