Allen Public Library reopens after over a year of renovations, with new features and resources for the community.

Eileen Tollett’s journey in Allen, Texas, began in 1969 when she and her husband moved to a city with a population of under 2,000 residents. Initially taking up volunteer work at a small library located in the old Woodman of the World Building, Tollett quickly became an integral part of the community. In 1976, she made history by being the first woman elected to the Allen City Council and was part of the decision to establish a public library, which they anticipated would cater to a community that they believed would grow to around 35,000 residents. The population of Allen, however, now stands at approximately 113,300, a significant leap that has led to discussions about the adequacy of city facilities, including libraries.

Currently, the city boasts a single public library situated at 300 N Allen Dr. Originally constructed in 2005, this library encompassed 54,000 square feet. However, a recent expansion aims to address the needs of the growing population. The library will officially reopen its doors on Monday following an 18,000 square foot expansion. The renovations have introduced dedicated spaces for young children and teenagers, social gathering areas, and six reservable study rooms. Notably, the library now features four self-service checkout devices and an automated sorting machine for its extensive collection of over 150,000 items.

The .9 million expansion, which closed the library for over a year starting in August 2024, was funded primarily through a million bond approved by voters in 2016, supplemented by city maintenance funds. During the closure, the library temporarily operated out of the former Rountree Elementary School campus.

Designed by Hidell Associates Architects, a firm with extensive experience in public library projects, the renovation process incorporated input from a steering committee of Allen residents, chaired by Tollett herself. Emphasizing energy efficiency and accessibility, the new design includes an expanded children’s area with comfortable seating and engaging activities, as well as a teenage section that has tripled in size, now equipped with gaming facilities.

Tollett and the committee prioritized the need for a library that serves as a welcoming community hub. As Tollett pointed out, the previous library lacked sufficient space for children’s activities and programs. Architect Tony Blaas expressed hope that these enhancements will provide a valuable resource for Allen’s diverse and growing community. He emphasized the importance of libraries as essential connections for residents, aiming for the newly renovated space to be modern, inviting, and accessible to all.

As Allen continues to grow, the newly expanded library stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to adapt and thrive in catering to its residents’ needs.