On Friday, March 10, the “Enchilada,” nicknamed as such for its signature red-hue, announced it will reopen on April 1. The event will feature activities and programs for all ages. A speaking ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. followed by the ribbon cutting.
The $3 million project was part of the City of San Antonio’s 2017-2022 Bond Program. It included renovations to the first and thirds floors to make the space safer and more functional. Other upgrades include a new welcoming entryway and modernized children’s area. The first floor features a new main desk, art walk, and inclusive restrooms with adult-sized changing tables.
The new Children’s Library at Central also received an upgrade, including a new story room, interactive early literacy play area, new family restroom, lactation room, and a new Family Connect computer lab.
“We are excited to share the improved spaces with the residents of San Antonio and visitors to our city,” Ramiro Salazar, Director of SAPL, says in a press release. “This renovation project enhances San Antonio’s Central Library’s place as a world-class resource offering access to information, programs, and a myriad of experiences for our users and visitors.”
Though reopening to the public, the buildings sixth floor will remain closed for an extensive $3 million renovation as part of the bond programs, including $500,000 in private funds raised by the San Antonio Public Library Foundation. The result of that project, Texana Resource Center, will feature a new design, upgraded study areas, a new classroom, improved wayfinding, and a new gallery and display space.
The Texana and Genealogy Department will offer interim services out of a location on Central Library’s first floor beginning in late 2023.
Activities for the April 1 opening include:
For everyone
• Central Library passport: explore the new improvements and earn a prize
• Birdsong Brackenridge Project birdhouses exhibit
• Exhibit highlighting the 1995 opening of Central Library
For children and families
• Chihuly Hat Craft
• Build with LEGO & DUPLO
• Early Literacy Play Area
• Children’s scavenger hunt
For adults
• Learn at SAPL adult education center open house
For teens
• Studio and Lab open house
• Karaoke
• Snacks
There will also be live music, light refreshments, and more.