Rondo Library Closes for Renovations Amid Community Concerns
UPDATE: The Rondo Community Library in St. Paul has officially closed its doors as of December 15, 2023, for urgent renovations costing $793,000. This sudden closure has sparked significant concern among patrons and local officials about the impact on the community’s access to essential resources.
Patrons arriving at the library were met with a notice announcing the temporary shutdown, leaving many feeling anxious about losing this vital community hub located at the intersection of University Avenue and Dale Street. Library Director Maureen Hartman stated that the renovations aim to create a more welcoming environment. “We want visitors to immediately understand that they have entered a library space,” Hartman explained.
The renovations will involve relocating restrooms to enhance accessibility and repositioning the front desk to greet visitors as they enter. However, critics, including City Council Member Anika Bowie, have voiced their dismay over the closure. During a recent budget hearing, Bowie expressed frustration about the lack of collaboration in the renovation process, stating, “The impacts of closing the Rondo Library have been challenging to convey.”
Library staff, represented by union leader Isaac Mielke, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that Rondo workers and community members have felt excluded from discussions regarding the improvements. “Staff who understand the building and the community have not been consulted,” Mielke asserted.
In response to the closure, library services will be temporarily relocated to the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center at 270 N. Kent St. starting January 3, 2024. Patrons will still have access to books, DVDs, and computer services at this alternate location.
Local resident Nehemiah Dacres expressed skepticism about the changes, questioning how the renovations would genuinely enhance the library’s approachability. “I don’t know what they’re going to do,” he remarked, highlighting concerns shared by many community members who rely on the library for resources and events, including the popular Black History Month programs.
The Rondo Library has faced numerous challenges in recent years, particularly following the disruptions from the 2020 pandemic and the subsequent unrest after the murder of George Floyd. Between 2021 and 2022, the library accounted for a staggering 25% of the St. Paul library system’s internal incident calls to police. In response, the library system introduced safety specialists to enhance security and outreach.
Despite the intended improvements, the library’s operational hours have been cut, with staff citing public safety concerns and low staffing levels as key issues. Community members, including author and frequent library user Dr. Artika Tyner, voiced their frustrations, stating, “Librarians should assist with research, not monitor bathroom use.”
As the renovations progress, both Bowie and Tyner are calling for increased communication from library officials regarding how design changes will address safety issues while fostering an inviting atmosphere.
The Rondo Library’s abrupt closure has left many residents, including mother Lynn Overvoorde, unaware of the situation. “I like the space as it is,” she said, expressing hope that the library would not remain closed for long.
As this situation develops, residents are urged to stay informed about the progress of the renovations and the library’s reopening timeline. The community’s voice remains crucial as discussions around the future of the Rondo Library continue.
