Quince Orchard Library Reopens After 6 Months In Gaithersburg

GAITHERSBURG, MD — The Quince Orchard Library in Gaithersburg reopened after six months of renovations this weekend.

The library at 15831 Quince Orchard Rd. celebrated its opening Saturday, Dec. 16, after closing on Saturday, April 16 for the $1.1-million "refresh project." Improvements include completely a new book drop, redone public restrooms, a new bike rack, new lounge area and furniture and new signage.

"It is a pleasure to reopen this refreshed Quince Orchard Branch," County Executive Ike Leggett said in a statement. "Providing quality facilities requires strong fiscal management and smart planning. The refresh model saves our residents tens of thousands of dollars and keeps our libraries in good repair."

New information and self-checkout service desks were installed to provide better service for library-goers. These self-checkout desks are adjustable and close together. There are also stations for three staff members to serve the public at the circulation desk and two stations at the information desk.

All of the fluorescent light in the library was replaced by LED lighting, officials said. This will produce more cost-efficient light that will be brighter and more effective in the reading and work areas.

Additional changes were made to the outside of the building, including replacing cracked concrete, painting new parking space lines and repairing the stonework in the entrance columns.

The Library Refurbishment CIP funds programmatic and service impact updates to two to three libraries every year, according to a press release. Partial funding for the Quince Orchard was provided by the County Library Capital Grant Program, Maryland State Department of Education and Division of Library Development and Services.

Library hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 1-5 p.m. Sunday.

Photos: Montgomery County Public Libraries