A new look will accompany a new distinction later this year when the Gillis Branch Library completes a remodeling project in August. In addition, Fresno County is launching the first Family Place Library in the Central Valley, with the Gillis Branch achieving the distinction earlier this Spring. The family-friendly space creates a welcoming environment for parents, caregivers and children ages 0-5 in which learning and development is promoted through age-appropriate toys, books, parenting resources and special workshops. The Family Place Libraries network currently includes more than 250 sites in 25 states. The Fresno County project is funded in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the Library Services and Technology Act administered in California by the State Librarian. The branch is tentatively scheduled to close about July 17 and re-open about August 16 to complete a much-awaited refurbishment. Gillis will receive new carpet, new paint and new end panels for its shelves. The Friends of the Gillis Library is currently conducting a fund raising campaign to purchase additional items to enhance the library, such as a fleet of colorful new book trucks, book stands, sign and book holders, and audiovisual equipment for the newly created teen space. Not only will Gillis reopen with a new teen space, but the children’s area will also be moved towards the windows and enlarged to provide more play space for young children and child development resources for their parents, which was made possible by the hard work of the Youth Services Department on the Family Place grant. The Gillis Friends, is also working to provide much-requested WiFi access, pending award of a State Grant. Finally, the newly-refurbished branch will be adding self-check, a program that allows patrons to check out materials without the need for assistance from library staff. freeing them to devote more time to other critical functions. Look for an August or September announcement of an open house, to be presented by the Friends of the Gillis Library. Or better yet, come visit us anytime this fall to see our fresh, attractive library!