Last checkout at Villard library before grand opening

Jackson Family

Antoinette Jackson and her family helped celebrate the last book check-out at Villard Avenue Library on Fri., Sept. 30, which will be closed for two weeks in preparation for the grand opening of the new Villard Square branch at 5190 N. 35th St.

Antoinette grew up using the Villard Avenue library and often brings her family. The free grand opening celebration on Sat., Oct. 15 will include a 9:45 a.m. parade of books from the old library to the new led by the Paradigm Drumline, remarks by civic officials, a ribbon cutting, performances by students from the Lincoln Middle School of the Arts, crafts for kids, refreshments, giveaways and more. Find more information at www.mpl.org.

Belin Thompson

A long-time neighborhood small business owner (Villard Washer & Dryer Repair) and frequent Villard Avenue Library patron, Charles “Chuck” Belin, checks out the last book from the Villard Avenue library branch, assisted by branch manager Kirsten Thompson. He is a member of the Villard Avenue Business Improvement District, managed by the Northwest Side Community Development Corporation, which actively fostered support for the new library. The Villard library will be closed for two weeks in preparation for the opening of the new Villard Square branch at 5190 N. 35th St. The free grand opening celebration on Sat., Oct. 15 will include a 9:45 a.m. parade of books from the old library to the new led by the Paradigm Drumline, remarks by civic officials, a ribbon cutting, performances by students from the Lincoln Middle School of the Arts, crafts for kids, refreshments, giveaways and more. Find more information at www.mpl.org.