Aurora, Ill. — The Aurora Public Library will host a Community Update meeting on Wednesday, July 16, to give current information on the Eola Road Branch renovations.
This month, drywall was added to the new Makerspace and Computer Lab. The new Large Meeting room has footings and foundation in place. The added drywall completes phase 1 of the renovation. The walls are taped and ready for painting. Once the walls are painted, the ceiling will be installed. Staff has begun preparing storage collection for phase 2. Electricity will be added for card readers and security systems.
Preparations for the renovations began in January 2025 when study rooms became unavailable for reservations in anticipation of the construction work. In February, the book returns became unavailable and the Eola Community Center was no longer accessible through the library. Staff shifted their collection work in March to begin removing old bookshelves.
A permit was approved in April for Phase 1 of construction work to begin. Crews began sawcutting and excavation. They framed walls and doors and passed p[lumbing and electrical inspections. In May, crews began excavation to create space for the new meeting room. The hallway walls, where the old book returns were located, have been torn down.
The renovations will add approximately 9,000 square feet. The estimated budget for this project is $8 million, and it is estimated to be finished in July 2026.
