20-05-2025
Scotlandville library renovation enters next phase with community support
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — City leaders and residents gathered Monday to celebrate progress on the newly renovated Scotlandville Library, a project shaped by community input and deeply rooted in one of Baton Rouge's historic neighborhoods.
'We have listened to our patrons,' said Katrina Stokes, executive director of the East Baton Rouge Parish Library. 'We've conducted surveys and hosted community meetings to ask them: 'What do you want? What do you need from us?'
The renovated library will feature expanded access to technology, new programs and meeting rooms, a community fridge, and a dedicated Black Heritage Room. Its colors — blue and yellow — pay homage to nearby Southern University and the cultural history of the community.
'It's going to be almost like a museum,' Candace Temple said. 'The Black Heritage section in the library is going to be just awesome.'
Temple emphasized that the library system is always looking for ways to better serve its communities.
Among those in attendance was East Baton Rouge Metro Councilman Anthony Kenney, who grew up in the neighborhood and credits the library with shaping his path.
'We want to make sure we're increasing literacy in our communities,' Kenney said. 'As our kids grow up to become the next lawyers, council members, and mayors, we want to ensure the library is part of that foundation.'
Mayor-President Sid Edwards also spoke at the event, reinforcing the shared vision among city and library leaders to make the library a welcoming space for all.
The project is scheduled to be completed by February 2026.
Scotlandville library renovation enters next phase with community support
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