The new Westover Branch Library opened October 31, 2009, at the corner of Washington Boulevard and N. McKinley Road. It is a dual use facility shared with the schools and located on the site of the original Walter Reed School.
When the previous building opened in 1963, 3000 books were borrowed on the first day, a record number of check-outs for a single day at that time, according to then library director Jane Nida.
The whole library system was expanding during this period, and at one of the dedications, County Board member Roye Lowry made the following remarks, a reminder of the importance and power of libraries:
“The serenity of this building and the quiet atmosphere of its interior should not mislead us, for this is meant to be an exciting and even dangerous place…Awaiting us here will be the best and the worst in ourselves and in all men…If you enter this place, you shall not leave unmarked, for this is a place where illusions are shattered, where prejudices are destroyed, where hopes and ideals are kindled anew…
A library is a dangerous place for anyone who is afraid of new ideas. I hope that we will always keep it that way.”
The new Westover library is marvelous.
but the parking situation stinks, especially for those with mobility issues