Two Wake libraries plan celebrations to mark reopening, staying open

Two Wake County public libraries have something to celebrate, so they're planning events in the next week or so to mark the news.

Posted 3:21 p.m. Sep 4, 2015 — Updated 3:21 p.m. Sep 4, 2015

Sarah Lindenfeld Hall

Two Wake County public libraries have something to celebrate, so they're planning events in the next week or so to mark the news.

The Leesville Community Library will hold a grand reopening celebration on Saturday. The library has been closed since February after arson caused extensive damage from fire and smoke. The day includes a family storytime and puppet show at 11 a.m. Fish the Magish will perform at 2 p.m.

Light refreshments and giveaways for young children are part of the day. I love this campus, which includes a playground right next door. It's at 5105 Country Trail in north Raleigh.

And the Athens Drive Community Library in southwest Raleigh will have a big celebration on Sept. 12 to celebrate efforts to keep that library open. Wake County commissioners had considered closing the library, which is on the campus of Athens Drive High School. But a public outcry, organized, in part, by a vocal group of moms, helped to save it.

From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the library at 1420 Athens Dr. will offer a special storytime, puppet shows, scavenger hunts and more. As part of the plan to keep it open, the library system has expanded the location's operating hours, staffing and parking. There also are more programs for kids from birth to high school. I know some families out there are thrilled to keep this open in their neighborhood!

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