In the summer of 2011 the Elizabeth Branch Library moved from Main Street to Beverly Street. The Library District sold the library on Main Street in May 2011 and used the proceeds from that sale to renovate 5,000 square feet – almost double the square footage – of the new building. The additional space has allowed the collection to be spread out and provided increased seating capacity throughout the building. The Elizabeth Library has distinct children’s and teen spaces. A meeting room is available for use – call at (303) 646-3792 for more information and to reserve the space.

The Elizabeth Library is a 13,000 square foot building with parking for about 70 vehicles.  While the library now operates from this building, as seen below, a major renovation to create a modern library with wonderful lighting and open spaces remains to be completed. This is where the Foundation comes in. They are tasked with raising funds to complete the build out of the Elizabeth Library Branch.

Below is an architect’s rendering of the potential main area of the new library. Note the spacious high ceilings. The new library space would offer greater flexibility in displaying collections of materials in addition to improved lighting, a more spacious feel, and more places to relax and enjoy the library.

Architect’s Rendering-Interior Main View

Not just a building full of books, the new library will also be a community resource for everyone in Elbert County to use: 

• For educational opportunities
• A teen gathering place outside of school hours
• A children’s learning center
• A place for reading skills enhancement
• Community meeting room with separate entrance for meetings after hours
• Original art displays by Elbert County artists
• A venue for special events
• Wi-Fi hotspot for everyone to use their laptops
• Computers available to the public and Internet access
• Research with knowledgeable guidance from staff
• Expanded book and DVD collections

Many participants of a October 2009 brainstorming session expressed a desire to have a fireplace in their new library. This view shows the fireplace in the southwestern corner of the building and behind it is the outdoor patio. This corner of the library affords great views of the Rocky Mountains in the distance.

Architect’s Rendering-Fireplace