Plans for a new Parsons Avenue branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) have solidified, as the library recently closed on the last of seven parcels along the west side of Parsons between Stewart and Deshler Avenues. The new library will sit on about one and a half acres, less then half a mile south of the current Parsons Avenue branch. Six commercial properties and one apartment building will be demolished, although only one of the buildings is currently occupied.
“It’s a wonderful, wonderful move forward for our neighborhoods,” said Bob Leighty, Executive Director of the Parsons Avenue Merchants Association (PAMA). “We already have the best library in the nation, and access to their programs and neighborhood resources will improve so much with the new library facility.”
Leighty also expressed hope that the new building will serve as a catalyst for further development along the corridor.
“The new library branch will be a major new anchor in the two-mile stretch of Parsons Avenue, from Nationwide Children’s Hospital south to the Southern Gateway redevelopment area and Route 104,” said Leighty, adding that such a major investment in the community comes at an opportune time. “We are working to revitalize Parsons Avenue in general, and we are looking at development opportunities with existing buildings near the location of the new library.”
Ben Zenitsky of CML said that they expect the design process to begin shortly, with a goal of breaking ground on the 20,000 square foot building by fall of 2014. Moody Nolan is the architect selected for the project.
The current Parsons branch is about 7,000 square feet and accommodates nearly 150,000 visits a year; the new building would be similar in size to the Karl Road branch, which Zenitsky said has had about 350,000 visits so far this year. A community open house was held earlier in the year to solicit input from library-users for the new branch; many residents have requested more computers available for public use.
“We’ve heard this request loud and clear, so the new branch, when completed, will have more computers…and increased capacity for technology that allows for faster speeds,” said Zenitsky.
He also echoed Leighty’s hopes about future of the Parsons Avenue corridor; “we’re eager to contribute to the revitalization of this neighborhood with a brand new library.”