The Hinton Library celebrated the completion of the new entrance way recently.

On Oct. 22, staff and patrons celebrated with cake and coffee after the completion of a lengthy renovation to the front entrance and the parking lot out front.

Hetty Wilderdijk, head librarian, explained that about two years ago, a big frost hit the area, causing the entrance way to heave considerably. This caused the doors and surrounding concrete to become unsafe and unstable, with patrons and staff having to navigate around very big “watch your step” signs for the duration. 

Along with the repairs to the front entrance, Wilderdijk said the whole parking lot was modernized and was out of commission for at least a month while the entrance was being redone.

“The parking lot has become a lot safer now,” said Wilderdijk. “We voted for the design that was the safest and with more lighting.”

As she happily gave out delicious cake to hungry customers, Wilderdijk said, “We wanted to celebrate by having cake and coffee for the people that have used the entrance all along and reward them for their patience.”

The project was completed with financing through the government’s Make Work grant and Wilderdijk said the outside of the facility will also be receiving some beautification to create a common theme within the whole complex, which houses the Dr. Duncan Murray Recreation Centre as well.

Pam Stewart, library program and service co-ordinator, said that when she came in last week, it was like she was coming in to a new place of work.

“It’s very exciting and I know that people were anxiously waiting for the completion,” she said. “With the parking lot being done as well, it’s a lot easier to get around.”

According to the Town of Hinton website, www.hinton.ca, renovations continue in and around the complex, with improved parking creating 86 new parking stalls, safer/structured traffic and pedestrian flows, enhanced street lighting and landscaping enhancements.

Wilderdijk is proud of the library, pointing out the many features such as live plants, self check-out and the archives room.

“It’s so much more than books, it’s also a meeting place,” she said. “We also feature local and travelling art exhibits.”

The library was newly renovated just four years ago and Wilderdijk said this was a nice finish to the renovations and staff are very pleased.