Local History Room in Falls Church Library to Close for Renovations

The history room at the Mary Riley Styles Public Library in the City of Falls Church will temporarily close beginning Sunday, Aug. 18.

The closure comes after the city’s decision to revamp the room, which officials said is not in a position to meet the growing demand, into a “larger, more prominent” space at the aging library (120 N. Virginia Avenue).

The renovation includes adding 3,174 square feet, along with new features that will ensure a quieter and more comfortable experience for visitors.

“The new room will also again have regular weekly hours to encourage drop-ins and generally increase access,” the website said.

While the renovations are taking place, the files and documentation will be placed in storage and won’t be available for public access until the renovation is completed in late 2020 or early 2021. However, people can still search for photos, death notices and obituaries online.

By 2033, the library’s website said it expects more than 35,000 people to take advantage of the sources available in the history room.

FYI: the @mrsplfc Local History Room is closing to the public on Aug. 18 in preparation for the Expansion & Renovation project. The Local History Digital Collection will still be online. Details: https://t.co/8IP1W8Gd9F pic.twitter.com/5fjJG22Zhi

— City of Falls Church (@FallsChurchGov) August 6, 2019

Image via City of Falls Church