Now that the extensive renovation is complete, library patrons are unanimous in their approval.
This article was originally published by Samantha Schroeppel in The Uproar on January 20, 2026. (Photo: D. Crickets)
A year of construction and $4.1 million later, the Northland Public Library has officially reopened its doors. Although initially a project designed to address structural issues within the lower-level entrance, the renovation evolved to completely transform the library’s atmosphere and enhance its service to the local community.
“The New Northland continues to serve our mission and to position the library as a third space for the communities we serve,” explained Executive Director of Northland Amy Steele.
Open since 1968, Northland has long served as a social center for McCandless residents, offering a welcoming environment for children, teens, and adults alike. However, over time, the foundation began to crumble as the outdoor patio started to sink. As plans to address these concerns developed, the project expanded beyond repairs to include more ambitious improvements, such as a progressive redesign of the building’s layout to improve accessibility and functionality.
Initially predicted to be complete in early fall 2025, construction finally concluded in late December.
Highlights of the “New Northland” include a two-story building extension, an accessible lower-level entrance, a mezzanine reading level with panoramic views, a new conference room on the upper level, and an expanded teen space. Patrons now enter through a centralized service area designed to streamline checkouts, customer service, and material pickups. Gone is the nostalgic spiral staircase, replaced with more practical, wide terraced stairs.
Funding for the $4.1 million renovation drew upon multiple sources, $2.8 million of which came from external grant funding from county, state, and federal levels. The nonprofit Northland Public Library Foundation contributed $368,000, with the remaining costs coming from the library’s capital savings.
As noted by Dana Getz, the President of the Northland Public Library Authority Board, these alterations aimed to do more than just improve appearances: “The renovation was driven not by a desire for better aesthetics (although it is awfully beautiful), but by Northland’s ongoing mission to create a welcoming, safe, and accessible space for all. Now our ever-growing population of after-school teens have the perfect environment to build community.”
A common location for after-school studying and socializing, Northland’s new additions have attracted the attention of many NASH students.
“It just feels more open and inviting, especially with the natural light of the new windows,” shared NASH senior Summer Ji. “The whole space is a lot more modern and great for studying and hanging out with friends.”
One of the most notable additions is Commonplace Coffee, a new cafe situated within the lower level of the new extension.
“It’s nice to be able to grab a coffee or snack — it makes the library feel more comfortable and like a place where you want to stay,” stated NASH senior Helen Chen.
The cafe also features a special artistic element present at all Commonplace Coffee locations. “The Commonplace,” a poem by Walt Whitman, is displayed on the cafe walls and brought to life by local artists at each location. Northland’s version of the poem will be designed and painted by longtime staff member and recent retiree Susan Claus, adding a personal touch to the new space.
For many students, Northland’s importance extends far beyond its aesthetic design and new renovations. The library has played a large role throughout childhood and adolescence, serving as a familiar space with sentimental value.
“I’ve been coming to Northland after school with my friends since middle school, so it feels like a place I’ve grown up with,” said NASH senior Margot Anderson. “I’m glad they were able to make changes and improvements without taking away from its character.”
With renovations complete, Northland now offers a combination of modern design with familiar spaces that serve students and the broader community. Through a more open atmosphere, dedicated space for teens, and cafe, the library continues its role as a major public resource, reaffirming Northland’s mission to act as a third space for local communities.