Close to 2,000 people packed into Parma Heights last Saturday for the ribbon-cutting and grand opening of the Cuyahoga County Public Library’s rebuilt Parma Heights branch at 6188 Pearl Road. Families, local officials and neighborhood groups turned the event into an afternoon hangout with building tours, demonstrations, and live performances.
New Branch Debuts With Tours, Demos And Kid-Friendly Fun
The formal ribbon-cutting was held at 2 p.m., followed by self-guided tours of the new building, Innovation Center demonstrations, and a slate of family activities, according to the system’s event listing. The branch is described as a state-of-the-art space that includes program rooms, a Toy Library, and a Kids Café that will host ongoing classes and community programs. Cuyahoga County Public Library promoted the opening-day schedule and participating partners.
Big Crowd, Big Names At Opening Day
In a Facebook recap titled “What a beautiful day!”, the Parma Heights branch reported that it “welcomed nearly 2,000 people” and publicly thanked volunteers and partners for making it happen. Photos and the post highlight attendees including Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne, Parma Heights Mayor Marie Gallo, state legislators, and library leadership, along with a performance by Valley Forge High School students. Cuyahoga County Public Library shared the attendee list and images from the celebration.
Price Tag And Plan For The New Build
The new branch replaces the midcentury-era library near Greenbriar Commons and came together as an approximately $11.5 million construction project, according to the contractor. Project materials describe the design as a modernization of program spaces that also improves community access to services. Shook Construction detailed the project’s scope and budget.
How The Library Prepped For The Big Move
Library trustees signed off in January on a resolution to close the old Parma Heights branch from April 6 to 10 so staff could shift materials into the new building before opening, according to the system’s board book. The resolution and related capital notes are included in the January board packet. Cuyahoga County Public Library documents the vote and timeline.
Old Building Headed For Wrecking Ball
Parma Heights officials have discussed plans to demolish the former 15,500-square-foot library building and convert the site to green space, timing the work so it does not interfere with the pool season, according to local reporting. The city is taking bids for demolition and has sought partial grant funding to help cover costs as the area changes. Parma Heights Today / NationalToday outlined the demolition schedule and funding approach.
