The Florence-Lauderdale Public Library is expanding its services with two new outdoor spaces aimed at enhancing the experience of both children and adults. Library Director Abby Carpenter and Youth Services Librarian Jessica Hill shared details about the project, which is expected to benefit a wide range of patrons.
“We’ll have two outdoor spaces as part of our FL Outdoors initiative,” said Hill.
The children’s section will function as an outdoor classroom, offering additional programming space for families to learn and collaborate. This expansion aims to provide a quieter space for homework and group learning during busier hours inside the library. For adults and teens, a separate area will be connected to the colonnade at the far end of the library.
“It’ll be an open space with a variety of accessible seating, Wi-Fi, and charging stations,” Library Director Abby Carpenter said. “People can extend their workspace outdoors, especially on nice days.”
The area will also be used for lectures, music events, and remote work.
Although the exact timeline for the project remains uncertain, the construction budget for the outdoor spaces alone is estimated at $480,000. The process has involved significant planning, community feedback, and design work that began in 2021. The library received input from residents on how the spaces could be used, with an increased emphasis on outdoor activities due to the pandemic.
Hill, who has been with the children’s program since 1996, is particularly excited about the new space. “I’ve always wanted to take children outside more often,” she said. The new gated area will make it easier to facilitate outdoor programming safely.
Both areas will include a pergola, and the children’s space will feature a chalkboard for outdoor classes and musical instruments to honor the Shoals’ rich musical history. For remote workers, the adult space will be an ideal spot to work outside with better seating and strong Wi-Fi connectivity.
“We see this as an extension of our indoor space,” said Carpenter, emphasizing the importance of making the outdoor areas appealing to the entire community. The project has received support from a Community Development Block Grant through the City of Florence, a fact both Hill and Carpenter are grateful for.
“We just want to extend our space outside and give people even more reasons to visit the library,” Carpenter added. The library hopes the community will embrace the new spaces once they are completed.
As the project progresses, the library staff remains committed to making it a valuable addition to the community.
