Good News

December 5, 2009

Osterhout Library turns new page

The 160-year-old downtown building’s million-dollar facelift is completed.

By Sherry Long slong@timesleader.com
Staff Writer

WILKES-BARRE – The million-dollar exterior facelift at Osterhout Free Library was celebrated Friday afternoon during a ribbon cutting ceremony in front of the 160-year-old structure.

During the renovation, several of the library’s stained glass windows were restored to their original condition. Storm windows also were installed over the stained glass windows to protect them from the elements.

The top of the bell tower was completely restored and several spots where bricks were loose were re-pointed, which replaced loose mortar between the bricks with a fresh batch of mortar to keep the building lasting another century.

Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton visited the library as a child and still comes back to occasionally read to children.

“This is truly an asset to the City of Wilkes-Barre, not only Wilkes-Barre, but all of the Wyoming Valley. It is very important to keep it in its peak condition,” Leighton said.

He said the library routinely opens its doors allowing nonprofit groups to bring young children and students in for story time and other educational opportunities. Since the library is in the downtown it is also easily accessible for people on the bus routes, taking a lunch break or college students, Leighton said.

Board President Stephen Rosenthal was pleased with the work, but said the most important thing is serving the public – children and adults.

“As important as it is that we restored a 160-year old building, I think what is just as important is that we restored and continued to enhance and put smiles on children’s faces as they walk through these doors. That we help individuals seek employment. That we help educate college students, further their career and provide a safe haven for people to just come and read an old fashioned novel,” Rosenthal said.

Library Executive Director Sara Hansen thanked the community for its support and noted how without funding from various state and county sources the library would not have been able to complete the work.

There were before and after photos on display at a light reception after the ribbon cutting.

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