The Jiří Mahen Library will undergo an extension starting in November at a cost of 26 million.

Brno - The Brno Library Jiřího Mahena is set to undergo a ten-month reconstruction and extension starting at the end of November, with a budget of 25.8 million CZK. A new community hall and further improvements for the ever-growing number of readers will be ready by autumn next year, the library spokesperson Jana Kuncová informed in a press release today. Throughout the construction period, the library will remain fully operational, although some services will be temporarily relocated.
The library, located in the historic building of the Schrattenbach Palace, underwent a complete reconstruction from 1998 to 2001. However, it strives to respond to new technologies and innovations and consequently to new demands from readers. "We cannot do without construction, technological, and interior adjustments," commented director Libuše Nivnická.
Thanks to a grant from the Regional Operational Program, a new cultural and social hall for 100 people will be created, primarily in currently unused attic spaces. Other innovations will include a Library Club, where people will find previously missing refreshments. It will be located to the right of the main entrance and will serve as a venue for smaller, intimate events in the evening hours.
A new customer center will also be established at the corner of Kobližná and Poštovská streets, which will be connected to the library atrium. This space for first contact with readers will be new, providing access to the internet and general information. "The Europa Direct center will also be located here. Services will be available not only to readers but also to city visitors and tourists," added Kuncová.
Since the library has recorded a growing interest from young families, a so-called family point will also be created, linking to the central hall. Mothers will have privacy to care for infants or toddlers, and there will also be space for games.
The library has been established by the City of Brno since 1921. Approximately 25,000 to 30,000 books are added to the library collection each year. The library also subscribes to 250 periodical titles in more than 900 copies. Every year, around 40,000 readers register, making approximately 2.4 million loans. The institution's annual budget is 45 million CZK.