Cooper-Siegel Community Library in Fox Chapel has started a new chapter, one that bolsters its mission of cultivating a community of lifelong learners.
On Jan. 23, the library opened its $2.5 million expansion of the facility’s lower level, complete with a Makerspace, small group study rooms, common area with tables and chairs, program space and more.
“This is a space where ideas can flourish and curiosity can thrive,” said Jill McConnell, executive director. “I envision the large multifunctional space as a hangout for people who just want to chat, work on a jigsaw puzzle, listen to some music or grab a snack, and I’m really excited to see what people create in the new Makerspace.”
The project was funded through a public capital campaign launched in 2024, as well as $1.4 million in state grants from the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority and state Department of Education’s Bureau of Library Development.
State Sen. Lindsey Williams, D-West View, called libraries the keystone of the neighborhood.
“It’s a place where people can make connections and fight loneliness,” she said.
The spacious ground floor promotes community-building through thoughtful design. A table with a perpetual puzzle invites patrons to build it together. The unique “Library of Things” is displayed on shelves that span an entire wall — and is as much a conversation starter than a station for borrowing items that include guitars, knitting kits, drills, cooking material, art supplies and other items.
Lisa Roxby of Indiana Township visited the library Jan. 23 with her toddler. It’s a regular stop, at least once or twice a week, for the reading lover who currently has 44 books on loan.
“The new space feels cozy, like a nice place to hang out,” she said. “We love the programming here so this new space looks like it will be great.”
Officials and library patrons gathered for a ribbon-cutting — done with the same gold scissors used when the building originally opened in 2011.
Emphasizing the mission to serve as a community hub, leaders said the enhancements help meet the needs of the diverse service area which includes Aspinwall, Blawnox, Indiana Township, Sharpsburg, Fox Chapel and O’Hara.
“This is a place where people can stay digitally connected without barriers,” said Kalie Snyder, Broadband’s public affairs manager. “Libraries are reshaping how people learn. They are so much more than buildings filled with books.”
At Cooper-Siegel, people can update a resume, search online jobs and connect with health resources — all investments that benefit the community, Snyder said.
County Executive Sara Innamorato said libraries are the intersection of education, workforce development and connection.
“This is one of our greatest assets, where you don’t have to buy anything to enter and you don’t have to pay anything to stay,” she said. “It’s simply access to resources that strengthen the region.
“This expansion not only adds square footage but learning for all ages.”
Library board President Steve Lackey called the expansion forward-looking, saying it helps promote the library’s mission into the next century.
The newly opened lower level fosters community engagement and boosts access to learning for all, board member Susan Skowron said.
“There was a time when it was difficult for people to make connections without going to a country club,” said state Rep. Mandy Steele, D-Fox Chapel. “This space will impact the community, and it’s neat to witness.”
