Leechburg Public Library has a new location and reopening date.

The library is set to welcome patrons Tuesday at 139 Market St., the former site of The Gifted Garden gift shop.

Formerly housed within Leechburg Area High School for more than 93 years, the library closed abruptly in May for a multitude of reasons, including a decrease in public support and problems with parking and operating hours.

The library previously offered limited hours, as it could only be open when students weren’t in school.

The new hours will be from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays.

“That was one of the main reasons for relocating,” said Karen Freilino, library board president. “Public opinion on social media requested extended hours, and people had a problem getting into the library because there’s a steep hill on First Street to access the library.”

The new space is more accessible to people with disabilities.

Library organizers are grateful to new landlord Ray Voyten, owner of Voytex Electric, for his help during the relocation.

“We have a three-year lease, and he didn’t charge us rent the first two months,” Freilino said. “He absolutely advocates for Leechburg.”

Leechburg Area School District Superintendent Tiffany Nix said the library relocation won’t impact the school library.

“We’re still using the library the same way we always have,” Nix said.

More to offer

The new library offers a large fiction section that includes large print books, a children’s section and biography, literature and history area in the nonfiction and reference section.

The library will continue to host children’s events, a book club and provide a small meeting space for Leechburg groups in exchange for a small donation, Freilino said.

New patrons are encouraged to visit and apply for a library card, which will provide access to ebooks. Two laptops are available for public use, and Wi-Fi will be available.

Because of ongoing covid-19 restrictions, Freilino said masks must be worn and social distancing must be observed inside the library.

Occupancy will be limited to 16 patrons.

“We will be taking all necessary cleaning precautions, and returned books will be quarantined for 72 hours to ensure the safety of our patrons,” Freilino said.

Library board secretary/treasurer Doreen Smeal said moving to a new location has been a longtime goal.

“We have always wanted to expand our services toward being a community center,” Smeal said.

About 15 volunteers from The Friends Committee of The Leechburg Public Library will pitch in with library duties and fundraisers. Megan Buzzelli and Mary Mego recently were hired as library clerks.

Leechburg Mayor Wayne Dobos said he’s pleased to see an empty storefront filled on Market Street.

“I’m glad to see it’s reopening, and it will be more accessible to everyone around town,” Dobos said.

Leechburg resident Gary Peterman, former co-owner of The Gifted Garden, said the move provides better library access for the public.

“It’s great for the community to be able to have more access to the library,” Peterman said.

For Freilino, the culmination of the past few months is rewarding.

“We’re just thrilled with how the new library has turned out,” Freilino said. “It has been a labor of love, and I hope the patrons enjoy the new decor.”

The library relies on public donations for its operating costs, and fundraising efforts have been hampered by the ongoing covid-19 pandemic, Freilino said.

“We are certainly in need and appreciative of any donations made by the public in order to keep our library functioning,” Freilino said.

The library’s annual operating budget is about $30,000.

Donations may be mailed to: Leechburg Public Library, 139 Market St., Leechburg, PA 15656.