Ellicott City branch refurb relocates desks, adds staff workroom and storage

The Ellicott City branch has completed a renovation that relocated service desks, improved staff work space and addressed longstanding maintenance issues, branch manager Chris Hostler told the Monroe County Public Library Board on June 17.

Hostler said the public service desks were moved from the central atrium to the edge of the public service area to reduce echo and noise and to improve patron privacy when staff access patron information on computer screens. Hold shelves were relocated just outside the children's room, and new carpet was installed in staff offices in January 2026.

To create a discrete space for program preparation, Hostler said staff installed two walls in what had been a large open non-public area, added power and data ports to serve the relocated service desks, and identified shelving for both sides of the new walls to increase storage capacity. Marketing created a mural for the new workspace, and Hostler offered tours to trustees.

The renovation also allowed the branch to address plumbing problems in a staff break room and restroom: Hostler said failing mounting hardware was replaced, a new sink and cabinetry were installed, and a wastewater cleanout access point was added to reduce future contracting costs.

Hostler told the board patrons have generally responded enthusiastically to the new layout, which has freed space for displays and high‑volume collections in the atrium. Trustees asked for a tour after the meeting.

What’s next: Hostler said shelving installation and some storage work remain, and marketing will continue to highlight the refreshed public spaces.