Columbus Metropolitan Library Hilliard Branch

The first month of the new Columbus Metropolitan Libraries Hilliard branch has been incredible and hectic, and although manager Robin Nesbitt deserves a vacation, she still radiates positive energy and excitement for the new facility. Robin, who came to the Hilliard branch in 2013, has been involved in planning the move for about two years. Now that it is complete, it’s satisfying to watch the community experience the space.

The new branch, which opened on June 21, is the largest in the library system. It is three times bigger than the previous Hilliard location. This increase in size provided the library with the opportunity to expand their collection as well as meeting and event spaces. The building includes a massive children’s section, cafe, three-season reading room, homework help center, teen space, a quiet reading room and over a dozen study and meeting spaces. With the increase in space, the staff is also growing. Robin will manage a team of 50 full and part-time employees once hiring is complete.

The community reaction to the building has been overwhelmingly positive. Robin shared patrons are most excited about the collection, the space and the excellent service provided by library staff. The library has seen a substantial increase in visitors and circulation over this time last year. They have already experienced 66,400 customer visits, compared to nearly half that number in 2017!

With more space comes more opportunities for the library to partner with the community in offering patron services. One initiative involves strengthening relationships with the schools. Several local schools will hold their staff retreats at the library this summer. The library and schools are exploring opportunities to bus students over for class visits, and the new homework help center will provide more space and resources for students after school.

In addition to partnering with the schools, the Hilliard branch also works with Tolles Technical Center to provide language classes for adults. Robin hopes that additional professional development classes will be offered in the future, in partnership with the Main branch. Son Ministries collaborates with the library to provide Job Start program services and adult conversation classes, and next summer the library will host the organization’s summer camp. Robin also fosters relationships with other organizations in the Hilliard community, including the YMCA.

Visit Columbus Metropolitan Library Hilliard Branch today! You’re certain to find treasure.