New Rolling Hills Library location open, grand reveal set for May
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- After months of planning and building, Rolling Hills Library's Riverside location is ready after years at their former home.
The new location offers many amenities not available at their old spot. With many large windows, multiple meeting rooms, interactive technology, and more, the staff is ready to welcome readers.
A key feature is the drive-through, which allows book check-out, returns, passport services, and more, according to manager Kelly Morris.
"We're enthusiastic about the drive-through. During planning, we considered multiple uses," Morris said. "Customers can pick up passport forms or use mobile printing."
The location includes diverse seating options for various library activities.
Another point of pride for Morris is the large children's reading area, which features an interactive play area, various digital games, a tracker wall for kids' reading, and much more. Also in the area is a large faux-home display that leads into a sectioned-off room for kids' group reading or other activities.
"We tried to make a space that is welcoming and inviting, our children's area in particular," Morris shared. "I'm really pleased with how it turned out, and I think kids are going to love it."
For area residents concerned about the new location's distance from its former home near 1908 North Belt Highway, Morris said the move was to remove it from the St. Joseph Public Library's taxing district.
Morris said St. Joseph has two library districts: one for public libraries and another for Rolling Hills, which is funded outside the 1961 city boundaries.
Rolling Hills is funded by Andrew County and Buchanan County outside the 1961 city limits.
"Yes, it meant being farther from traffic and the convenience of the Belt Highway, but it aligned best with our taxing district needs," Morris told KQ2.
Besides this aspect, Morris prides herself on the relationship Rolling Hills has with St. Joseph Public Libraries in the reciprocal borrowing agreement of books and goods, which benefits more readers.
The grand opening of Rolling Hills Library's Riverside location will be on May 9. For further details on Rolling Hills Library and its sites, click here.
