Tools, 3D printers and musical instruments probably aren’t what most people associate with libraries.
But Cooper-Siegel in Fox Chapel is far from ordinary.
The $6 million, 24,000-square-foot facility along Fox Chapel Road has grown its lending libraries, programs and classes to meet the demands of patrons who number nearly 30,000 from the six municipalities in the Fox Chapel Area School District.
Opened in 2011, the library is undergoing a $2.5 million expansion to accommodate the growing need for programs, meetings and studying.
“The core mission of any library continues to be a community space that offers free access to books and publications, which in turn enhances opportunities for all,” said Steve Lackey, library board chairman.
“At the same time, the mission has evolved from the written word to programming for all ages.”
Officials launched a public campaign this summer for renovation of an unfinished, 6,500-square-foot portion of the basement.
More than $2.1 million has come in so far, according to Executive Director Jill McConnell.
The board is pinning hopes on a $750,000 grant application through the state Keystone Recreation, Park & Conservation Fund, which is expected to be awarded by February. Public solicitations continue, and there are several naming opportunities available as well.
Construction is expected to begin in April and last up to eight months.
When the library was built 13 years ago, the basement space was left unfinished with the intention that it be completed at a future date.
“All the new spaces will be public spaces for programs, small and large group community meetings and events,” McConnell said.
Community members also will be able to use equipment, software and tools in a new makerspace to complete projects, learn a new skill or develop a new hobby, McConnell said.
Some of the equipment that will be available are 3D printers, a Cricut, sewing and embroidery machines and a laser engraver.
Renovations will add a large program room and three fully equipped study rooms, and soundproof new and existing meeting and study spaces.
Upcoming Local Events
Funds also will be used to establish a reserve account for future capital projects at Cooper-Siegel and its branch in Sharpsburg.
McConnell said increasing use at the library, from visits and check-outs to room reservations and program attendance, prompted the need for more public spaces.
Feedback from the community helped to guide decisions on what types of spaces were desired.
The library has a collection of more than 70,000 items. It is frequented by people of all ages who peruse its collections of musical instruments, small tools and appliances. A teen room and an expansive children’s area are brimming with hands-on items to boost literacy, including CDs, puppet kits, books and an art room.
Many patrons pop in to take advantage of a cozy seat on the porch overlooking the garden or by the fireplace inside.
Usage at Cooper-Siegel increased 23% from 2022 to 2023, with 7% more items borrowed and 35% more computer use, McConnell said.
At the same time, there were about 20% more program attendees and room rentals. Study room requests are up 9%, creating competition for available space.
Nearly 90,000 people visit the library each year.
Lackey said the board has been considering a build-out of the lower level for several years as it watched patronage grow.
“There was a logistical constraint with parking,” he said. “And then all plans were put on hold due to the uncertainty associated with the pandemic.”
In 2022, the library jumped at the chance to purchase an adjacent property for $350,000 and expand parking by 50 spaces. The project was paid for with funds from a bequest and a local, anonymous donor.
Lackey appreciates the support from the community for making the expansion capital campaign so successful.
“Once completed, the space will increase our ability to serve the educational interests for all the residents of our school district,” he said. “It fits perfectly with Cooper-Siegel’s mission to cultivate lifelong learners.”