Library in Tinton Falls Looks to Become More User Friendly

Correction: An earlier version of this article stated the library was seeking a grant for $185,000. The grant is for $200,000.

The hopes to receive approval from the borough council to modify certain features of its facility to accommodate patrons with limited mobility.

The will hold a hearing at its May 17 meeting on a grant application by the library to rework entrances and a few interior features to meet the needs of those dependent on aids for mobility.

According to Ellen O'Brien, who serves as the library's director, the improvements will allow many seniors who require walkers and wheelchairs to take advantage of the facility's numerous programs.

As discussed at the April 5 council meeting, costs for the construction will be covered by an $200,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), which is made available annually to the borough from the state to help municipal buildings conform to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations. In 2010, the borough used funds to modify the historic Crawford House.

Plans for the reworked library include:

• Widened entrance eliminating step at threshold;
• Lowered check out counters at the front desk to accommodate patrons using wheelchairs;
• Ramp replacing a step leading to the back section of the facility;
• Elimination of two existing restrooms (small and narrow) and the construction of two larger, ADA-compliant bathrooms at the back of the building;
• Construction of an approximately 500-square-foot addition to the back of the building that would replace an existing trailer and serve as a meeting room for library programs;
• Added ramp access to side and rear entrances of the building;
• Additional handicap parking space to accommodate wheelchair accessible vans.

"We're such a tiny, little library," said O'Brien, "but you know, we can offer the world."

A detailed drawing of proposed improvements to the library can be found in the photo gallery section on top of this article.