Baldwin's New Library: Groundbreaking Date Set

BALDWIN, PA - A groundbreaking ceremony will occur Friday for the new community library expected to open in 2019. The new facility will be housed in the old Leland Center, a borough owned building that's been vacant for several years because of roof damage.

More than $1.3 million of the building's $2.6 million renovation cost has been raised and has included funding from the state, Allegheny County, Baldwin Borough, charitable foundations, individuals and businesses, library officials said.

First opened in 1964, the library has been in the old Wallace School building since the 1980. Library officials say a new facility is needed because the current one is running out of space.

Annual visits have increased by 56 percent since 2010, while program attendance has risen by more than 72 percent. Every year more than 54,000 books and other materials are checked out by visitors and the library's collection now has more than 25,000 items.

According to borough and library officials, the new library will be in an easily accessible location conveniently located near public transportation. It will feature:

• About 2,100 square feet of more space than the Wallace Building.

• On- and off-street parking with designated handicapped spaces.

• A large meeting space for community activities.

• Separate areas for adults, teens and children.

• Expanded mobile computer stations and new digital lending material.

Rendering via Baldwin Borough.