Newly Renovated Century Branch Library Reopens (With Photo Tour)

March 4, 2021

The Century Branch Library reopened Tuesday after being closed for a month for renovation.

One of the most notable features of the new library design is a much improved use of space. The children’s area has been expanded, now incorporating what was formerly a storage room. The adult area, shelving and the circulation desk have been rearranged, creating a large open reading area that can be used for events and library programs.

FOR A PHOTO TOUR, CLICK HERE.

And, it’s like a park inside the library.

That’s how Escambia County Director of Library Services Todd Humble describes the newly renovated library.

“We are pleased to present a bright, open and airy space for our residents to enjoy within the Century Branch Library. The design concept behind this renovation was to represent nature,” Humble said as he describe the new, modern look of the library. “The paint color on the walls is blue to simulate the sky and the carpet pattern was chosen to simulate a patio. The color of the furniture was selected for a bright contemporary look, which will include orange, green and light blue colors.”

There will be two aquariums in the library on North Century Boulevard, one of which will include fish that might be caught in the Century area.

“The adult section will incorporate flowers and trees in the artwork. The lobby will include artwork of squirrels. The idea is to create a peaceful and inviting experience for residents to enjoy nature within the library.”

And then there’s the pod chair, likely to become very popular with library patrons. It’s comfy, with soft fabric inside. The hard dome-shaped outside shell provides sound isolation, making for a quiet reading spot.

Due to shipping and other delays, the renovation project is not quite compete. An official grand opening ceremony will be scheduled for a later date.

FOR A PHOTO TOUR, CLICK HERE.

NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.

Comments

17 Responses to “Newly Renovated Century Branch Library Reopens (With Photo Tour)”

  1. Todd J. Humble on March 6th, 2021 2:02 pm

    Amazon offers slightly off scale reproductions of many noted artists and designers.

  2. Lisa B on March 6th, 2021 4:26 am

    Where did the MCM and Eames Panton furniture come from?
    Is it real or reproduction? (Wow!)

  3. Nicole Johnson on March 5th, 2021 6:20 pm

    It looks so much more friendly and inviting

  4. ErinDigmon on March 5th, 2021 7:45 am

    I am excited about the renovations. Big improvement and much more friendly! Thank you.

  5. Sue Davis on March 5th, 2021 12:31 am

    I don’t think the old carpet could have been swept very often as it was hard to even see the floor and walk around in the library before. The computer room looks like ready for a gamers tournament. Although a bit funky looking the chairs are comfortable and I could not get my kids to leave to ball chair. It is actually the first time I had to drag them out of the library. I had to promise we would come back Saturday. It made me happy to be there today.

  6. William Reynolds on March 5th, 2021 12:10 am

    Who was the contractor?

    A.E. Ner, Jr. Inc

  7. Well on March 4th, 2021 9:40 pm

    Carpet is fine.
    Won’t be able to tell when it’s dirty.

  8. Geoff Greene on March 4th, 2021 9:15 pm

    I decided to stop by today to get my holds. I honestly had never seen the floor before and cannot believe this is the same library. I can actually see myself staying here instead of just grabbing my books and leaving. A bit bright, but no longer stuck in the dirty pink and red it was when I was here last.

  9. Chas on March 4th, 2021 7:06 pm

    Seems as though that there are some of you don’t appreciate anything. At least an effort was done to do something good for Century for a change. Ya’ll complain about everything do something yourself for your city pick up some paper on the street or pay and have it done your way hello

  10. MQ on March 4th, 2021 6:47 pm

    That is one ugly carpet and upgrade as a whole.
    Sunglasses are definitely needed-

  11. Geoffrey on March 4th, 2021 3:41 pm

    What a terrible day to have eyes

  12. Nana on March 4th, 2021 12:48 pm

    I’d have to see the carpet up close and live to determine if I really like it or not. However, I do believe it’s supposed to resemble patio bricks with moss.

  13. Rug Rat on March 4th, 2021 9:13 am

    That is the ugliest carpet I have ever seen! I understand the concept but . . .

  14. No Excuses on March 4th, 2021 8:54 am

    It looks great! I would go and take my children if I lived in Century.

  15. DM on March 4th, 2021 8:24 am

    Very nice!

  16. John on March 4th, 2021 7:52 am

    Who was the contractor?

  17. Jason on March 4th, 2021 6:56 am

    I am not a fan of the carpeting. Its looks like a dirty, unkempt bathroom floor. I guess that is one way to hide the real dirt from a lack of future maintenance.