The much-anticipated Calvert Library Twin Beaches Branch in North Beach is set to open its doors with a grand ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at 2 p.m. The public is warmly invited to partake in this landmark event, marking a significant milestone in the community’s cultural and educational landscape.
This upcoming inauguration is the culmination of extensive collaborative efforts between Calvert Library, Calvert County Government, the towns of Chesapeake Beach and North Beach, and the Maryland State Library Agency. The project was set into motion with the donation of land by the Town of North Beach, complemented by capital funds from the Calvert County Government and the County Library Capital Grant Program. Design costs were covered through a grant secured by the Town of North Beach, while the Calvert Library Foundation spearheaded fundraising efforts for the finishing touches, with the Town of Chesapeake Beach leading the contributions.
The transition to the new location signifies a closure for the Chesapeake Beach facility starting Monday, March 18, to facilitate the relocation of library materials to the new branch. During this interim period, the library has made arrangements for storytimes to be hosted at the Northeast Community Center, ensuring continued service to the community. Additionally, patrons are advised on alternative return locations for borrowed items, with special provisions for extended due dates to accommodate the move.
Melissa Gray, the manager of the Twin Beaches Branch, extends a heartfelt invitation to patrons to visit the Captain’s Quarters location in Chesapeake Beach before its closure. In a bid to preserve the collective memory of the community, she encourages the sharing of stories and pictures, which will be commemorated in a time capsule, capturing the essence of the branch’s history in Chesapeake Beach.
In anticipation of the new facility’s opening, the Twin Beaches Branch staff will be diligently preparing by organizing the new space, training on new equipment, and familiarizing themselves with the updated workflows and procedures. Highlighting the branch’s innovative features, Gray expressed enthusiasm for the introduction of a Makerspace, underscoring the commitment to embracing new technology and enhancing the library’s offerings.
Carrie Willson, Calvert Library’s Executive Director, shared her excitement about the forthcoming launch, emphasizing the building’s modern amenities designed to cater to the diverse needs of the Twin Beaches community. These features include ADA accessibility, study rooms, a programming room, dedicated spaces for teens, and the integration of cutting-edge technology throughout the facility.
For more information on the new Twin Beaches Branch and to stay updated on the latest developments, the public is encouraged to visit the Calvert Library’s website and follow its social media channels. This opening not only represents a significant achievement in community collaboration and support but also reaffirms the library’s pivotal role in fostering education, culture, and connection within the community.
