ATHENS, Ohio -- Alden Library visitors may enter through any door at the campus-side entrance on September 4, the first day of the fall term, but will be able to approach the doors only using the handicap access ramp. The steps to the library porch, which faces Cutler Hall, and the brick walkway directly leading to the steps will remain under reconstruction until later in September. The handicap access ramp is located at the west end of Alden, close to the Scripps School of Journalism.

A renovation project, aimed at correcting water leaks, resulted in complete closure of the library's fourth floor doors during the summer. The project included the installation of new and additional sealing of underground portions of the library, a new concrete slab for the library's porch, an improved handicap access ramp and reconstruction of steps and the sidewalk between the library entrance and the Wolfe Garden.

All work is scheduled for completion by the middle or end of September when library access will return to normal. Visitors may prefer the second floor entrance on Park Place until the campus-side construction has been completed. For safety reasons, visitors should observe all barriers at the construction site.