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By DONALD MOTTERN | Staff Writer

MONTEVALLO – The American Village will close its gates to the public for the month of August in accordance with an annual focus on ensuring the facility provides the best experience possible to both its guests and many staff members.

“The month of August is typically a slow time for visitors, as many families are getting ready to start school,” said Melanie Poole, communications officer for American Village. “A few years ago, the administration decided that staff time would be better spent in August taking care of maintenance needs on campus.”

According to Poole, this will include maintenance on buildings and outdoor areas throughout the facility that could otherwise not be carried out without presenting disruptions to its many offerings and American Village’s trademark immersive experience.

The closure will also present other members of staff—such as those who participate in reenactments, classes or who play historical figures—the opportunity to partake in a variety of outside personal development activities that embolden their performance upon their return.

“Many (members of our staff) travel to historic sites or take classes in their work fields (during the closure),” Poole said.

In addition to the routine improvements made every year during the facility’s annual August closure, American Village will also be making one major addition to its many offerings that can already be found on the grounds.

“This year, the American Village will be building out a new Merchants’ Coffee House, which will serve hot and cold coffees, along with grab-and-go sandwiches and salads,” Poole said. “We have long desired a food service option on campus, and this new facility will provide that.”

While information on the new coffee house has not yet been released, it is expected to be built out and developed over the course of the closure. Although it will not be ready to serve customers immediately upon the campus’ reopening to guests, it is expected to begin operations as soon as this October.

Poole announced the month’s long closure to the public through posts on the organization’s social media accounts and Facebook on Monday, July 29.