Sneak Peek: Noble Neighborhood Library Renovation

The doors have been closed and the books unread since October 2010, but soon that will all change.

Heights Libraries is from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday and residents are welcome to come take a peek at the library's $1 million face-lift. However, the library will not open for use until May 23 because officials are still waiting on furniture to be delivered.

"Noble needed to be renovated," said Heights Libraries Director Nancy Levin. "It was very run down from heavy use, which is a good thing, but we had outgrown many spaces."

The renovations include a new back door, which previously didn't exist, a large lobby/circulation desk area, a huge space for fiction books, a teen room, an adult area, more computers, a children's play and learning area and beautiful wall murals.

"We had three goals for this renovation," Levin said. "We wanted to put a back door in the back parking lot, reinstall the first-floor bathroom, create a new space for teens and adults, and protect and preserve the outside and restore the front door and stone steps (which will be completed in phase 2)."

The money for the overhaul had been saved over time by the library district, Levin said. It went into a special fund at the end of each year and could only be used on building projects.

The library also received grant money.

"We got a grant from the state for our early literacy playroom," said Noble Branch Manager Constance Dickerson. "It bought us computer stations, a smart board and allows us to plan literacy-based activities. It's been renovated into a really lovely space."

On Sunday, residents can enjoy food and drinks, a visit from an Eleanor Roosevelt impersonator, Flower Clown and more.

The library was built in 1937 and designed by architects Walker and Weeks. The renovations were completed by Studio Techne Inc.