Children's library in New Orleans to close for a year

The big picture: The branch on Napoleon Avenue is getting a full overhaul to focus on young children.

• The infrastructure — flooring, gutters, HVAC, bathrooms and walls — will be upgraded.
• The library is also adding a play area for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.
• The book collection will be curated for young children as will other resources, according to a press release.

Between the lines: About 70.5% of Louisiana kindergarteners were below reading level in 2023, according to Department of Education numbers cited by the library system.

• "This Center is a continuation of our efforts and a definite mark on where we stand — that early literacy is a priority and how dedicated we are to serving our little ones," said Heather Riley, the library's director of public services.

Fun fact: In 1902, the New Orleans Public Library received a $250,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie to build four new library locations, including one Uptown, known then as the Napoleon Library.

• It's now the Children's Resource Center Library. See historic photos.

What's next: The closest other branches are...

• Central City Library (2020 Jackson Avenue, Suite 139)
• Rosa F. Keller Library & Community Center (4300 S. Broad Street)
• Milton H. Latter Memorial Library (5120 St. Charles Avenue)
• Nix Library (1401 S. Carrollton Avenue)

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