Several operational changes are being planned in the upcoming year, officials said, to better serve library-goers at the West University Branch location, which includes moving the youth section downstairs and improving accessibility for families with children and teens.

At the Dec. 8 City Council meeting, an update was presented by Harris County Public Library officials who oversee the West U branch location. Executive Director Edward Melton said that with the large number of families who attend and participate in activities at the West U location, the changes will help to eliminate safety hazards.

“With this reorganization, it’s really going to help with how the community accesses the space,” Melton said.

Roughly 36,000 library articles are in the location, library officials said. Melton said the switching of shelving and furniture with the children’s and adults section will help give more space for activities while also giving adults a quieter space upstairs.

The specifics

The following changes were discussed by county library officials:

  • Moving youth services to the ground floor
  • Enhancing visibility and safety for children and teens with closer proximity to the main entrance, service desks and restrooms
  • Moving adults and quieter study areas upstairs
  • Keeping the self-checkout and holds on the first floor

Library officials told City Council the changes could cost an estimated $20,000-plus for the county, and once funding is secured, the move could be earmarked between January through March.

The library would have to close for at least a week and messaging will be sent out to the community in preparation for the move, library officials said.

What they’re saying

Mayor Susan Sample said that while her recent experience running a Boy Scouts event at the library was difficult, she said the process was still efficient. Melton said that with the switch, it’ll help with the flow of people going up and down the stairs, and will be easier for larger groups to access the one bathroom in the library.

“We’re well aware we have capacity issues,” Melton said.