New Library Facility Opens
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Attracts Crowds of Support On April 18
Posted Date: 4/23/2008 10:39 AM

On Friday, April 18th, the large group assembled at 104 Ardmore Avenue applauded the ribbon cutting for the new Library Processing Center. The Center, though not open to the public, provides a wealth of services behind the scenes to stock Lower Merion Library System (LMLS) shelves and store volumes that are important to the System, but not in regular demand by patrons.

“It is gratifying to celebrate the new Library Processing Center here at 104 Ardmore Avenue, especially because today’s ribbon-cutting represents the successful culmination of years of effort,” remarked Doug Cleland, Township Manager. A 2004 Library Planning Study concluded that strategies to relieve shelf overcrowding needed to be undertaken, including acquiring off-site space. Soon after, the property at 104 Ardmore Avenue, directly adjacent to the Ardmore Library, became available. “After successfully negotiating a fair purchase price with Main Line Health, the focus was on the building’s renovation, which in itself was a year-long process.”

The Processing Center features high density shelving. “Each shelf is four feet long, and there are a total of 2,125 shelves. If materials are housed shelf end to shelf end without bookends, the units can hold 68,000 hardcover books, or 102,000 paperbacks, or 204,000 DVDs or 408,000 children’s picture books,” relayed Rob Daigle, Assistant Director of Libraries. “To put it into perspective, the Ludington Library, which is the largest library in the Lower Merion Library System, currently holds about 169,000 items. The smallest, the Belmont Hills Library, holds just over 21,000 items.”

Prior to moving into the new 104 Ardmore Avenue location, the Library Processing Center operated out of small quarters in the lower level of Ludington Library. “The Lower Merion Library System and its employees are extremely appreciative of the leadership of the Board of Commissioners, and Township Manager Doug Cleland, who recognized our need for space and followed through to make this acquisition a reality,” remarked Chris Steckel, Director of Libraries.

“The Lower Merion Library System is one of the finest in the nation,” added Commissioner Brian Gordon, Chair of the Library Committee. “Our Board is committed to supporting our Township’s libraries and those whose dedication and hard work make them a source of pride for us all.”

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