Wake County has provided us with 11 fantastic public libraries, one of which is brand new. The Leesville Community Library in North Raleigh just opened its doors to the public this past month. It has been a long anticipated celebration too, since the project has been approved since May of 2007.
Phase 1 of the construction is complete, but we are still waiting with baited breath for Phase 2. Paved trails, an off-leash dog area, turn lanes and a median on Country Trail (a heavily-trafficked school road), and further expansion of the new Heritage Garden is currently underway and to-be-completed around spring of 2010.
Let’s check out what is there right now. Having a proximity to Leesville Elementary and Middle School, the library is suitable for both young learners and outdoorsman alike with amenities like a playground and picnic facilities. The building itself is actually encompassed by a 55-acre city park. Just because it is nestled in the trees does not mean this library is little though. With more than 8,000 square feet, it holds around 55,000 books with new ones on the way every day. The Leesville location also has 20 new computers available for public use. The Leesville library’s Web site includes more information on hours of operation.
With all those books at Leesville, there should be no qualms about running out of things to read. Just in case, though, Raleigh is giving you even more around the corner. In the wake of opening the Leesville Library, another outdated library close by is not closing, but in fact undergoing a renovation.
The Duraleigh Library is a hidden gem for Raleigh book lovers. It is tucked away in a shopping center off Duraleigh Road, but has been running out of space. The new transformation of the library includes a remodeling of the interior, but the rest is being kept hush-hush. You can visit their Web site as the renovations pick up speed to see photos of the library under construction. This location will be closed Oct. 5-30 while the renovations are underway. The library will have a grand re-opening on Oct. 31 at 10 a.m.
Getting a library card is easy – just show your N.C. driver license, and sign the card. So head to your nearest Wake County library, and get reading!
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