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WARREN — Plans are underway to reopen the Busch Branch of the Warren Public Library after school March 3.
The branch, located at 23333 Ryan Road, has been closed after school from 2:15-4 p.m. weekdays since late November.
The Warren Library Commission made the decision to close the branch during those hours because of fighting and loitering on library grounds among local students after the school day. Patrons and staff weren’t feeling safe. Most of the students reportedly attend Fitzgerald High School, which is located across the street from the library at 23200 Ryan Road.
Officials from Warren Mayor Lori Stone’s office, the Warren Library Commission, Warren Police Department and Fitzgerald Public Schools have met regularly since the closing to come up with a solution and to reopen the library.
On Feb. 11, Warren City Treasurer Lorie Barnwell, also a member of the Library Commission, reported via email the plans to reopen the Busch Branch next month.
“I organized a very productive meeting with the school district leadership, library leadership, mayor, and police leadership. Everyone is on the same page,” Barnwell said. “Behavior of students after school in the community has already improved greatly. This is due to the schools working hard in communication of behavior expectations and consequences with students and parents.”
According to the email, once the library reopens after school, district leaders will be on site at the library for a while after school to communicate with students.
“This will put staff and other residents at ease. It will also allow the school to identify the few kids causing issues so the other kids and residents can enjoy the library,” Barnwell said. “Communication lines are wide open with all of us. I’m proud of the superintendent and every other leader in this situation who has worked to ensure we can open again safely.”
Laurie Fournier is currently serving as interim superintendent in the Fitzgerald district.
When contacted about the library issue, Fitzgerald Director of Communication & Culture Jessica Percy confirmed the district “has been diligently working with (library officials) in order to come to a plan for reopening the library.”
