COLUMBIANA – The Columbiana Public Library is in the process of expanding and remodeling, and is planning to host a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house event once the renovations are complete. The celebration is set for 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 26 and will give locals a chance to get acquainted with the new space.

Columbiana Public Library Director Shelia Gallups said the library recently acquired 3,500 square feet from the Mildred B. Harrison Regional Library, which shares the same building. Gallups said the new space will be used to expand the Columbiana Public Library’s children and young adult sections.

Currently, Gallups said she is seeking out grants that would enable the Columbiana Public Library to purchase more books.

“We will have more information and books available,” Gallups said. “Some people have small book collections. But if it weren’t for the library, they wouldn’t be able to get their hands on some of our books.”

Additionally, Gallups said the extra space will allow the library to establish new programs for teenagers and adults. Typically, she said teenagers only get a week-long summer reading program, and there have not been any programs geared toward adults yet.

“It’ll get the community more involved in the library, I hope,” Gallups said.

According to Gallups, the renovations have been a community effort. Residents at the Alabama Therapeutic Education Facility are doing carpentry work on the library’s furniture, and Shelby County Arts Council Instructor Lynn Dodson is creating artwork for the space.

The celebration, which is hosted by Friends of the Library of Columbiana, will feature food and beverages. Gallups invited everyone in the community to attend.

“Our door is open to anyone who can come,” Gallups said. “We’re looking forward to opening so that people can start enjoying our new space.”