MANSFIELD — Mansfield Richland County Public Library (MRCPL) will begin construction on a renovated Learning Lab and a new Creation Lab at the Main Library.
HBM Architects will start construction on Monday, Jan. 5, on the second floor in the current Learning Lab space.
“We are excited to begin construction on a creative and collaborative space for the community,” said Library Director, Chris May.
The staff have been offering more and more Creation Lab technology over time and this gives them the opportunity to do so in a dedicated space.”
The project is projected to be completed by Spring 2026.
The renovated Learning Lab will feature bold new colors and updated technology, including a new copy machine, and will continue to serve as the hub for the Library’s technology classes.
The new Creation Lab will be a hands-on creative learning center offering innovative tools and technology for customer use, including 3D printers, 3D pens, a Cricut, an embroidery machine, and more.
The Lab’s popular computer classes will continue during construction but will be held in alternate public spaces within the Main Library and, at times, off-site at other MRCPL locations.
Customers are encouraged to carefully review location details on the online event calendar when registering for classes.
Public computers will remain available on the second floor in the adult area, and a Laptop Kiosk will be available for library cardholders who wish to work in alternate library spaces.
Learning Lab staff will continue to provide technology assistance and one-on-one help from the main reference desk. Customers may call 419-521-3146 or email learning@mrcpl.org to schedule appointments or reserve use of the current Creation Station equipment (button maker, laminator, label maker, Cricut® Explore 3, and photo printer).
Please note that the Library will be unable to control noise levels during construction.
However, the Main Library offers several quiet study spaces, soundproof study pods, and meeting rooms for public use, and the additional library departments should be protected from most construction noise.
The Main Library, located at 43 W. Third Street, Mansfield, Ohio, is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about this exciting project, visit mrcpl.org.