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The Olney Community Library and Arts Center will open to the public for limited purposes on Jan. 12 after a complete renovations - the first total update of the library’s interior since its 1979 opening. The library will host a grand opening, tentativel
The new library layout features colorful carrels in the central area. The carrels have USB and power plugs in the tabletops. Photo by Gina Keating
The conference/gallery room features new steel tables and plastic chairs for meetings, classes, or parties. Photo by Gina Keating

Sneak A Peek at the Olney Library’s New Look

The newly renovated Olney Community Library and Arts Center is preparing to reopen to the public with a refreshed interior, new furnishings and reimagined spaces designed to better serve patrons of all ages. The library, which closed in November for renovations, will hold a tentative grand opening on Monday, Jan. 26, from 4–6 p.m., Library Director Lori Cox said. The reopening was pushed back by about two weeks after a delay in receiving carpet slowed the rest of the installation work.

Olney Elementary School children were treated to a more benevolent spirit on Dec. 19, their last day of school before Christmas break. Buddy, the Christmas Elf who brings joy to all, (aka Assistant OES Principal Kalynn Philipp) appeared on the school roof

Olney City Council Approves TIRZ-2 Business Tax Zone

After nearly two years of debate and delay, the Olney City Council unanimously approved the creation of Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 2 on Dec. 22 — just under the wire to capture new tax revenue that supporters said would give the long-sought zone a crucial early boost. The vote came at the council’s final meeting of 2025 and followed months — and in some cases years — of sometimes tortuous discussion over the merits, risks and boundaries of the proposed tax zone. By contrast, Monday’s meeting was notable for its brevity. Olney Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Tom Parker was present to answer questions about the zone’s footprint and how the tax increment funds could be used, but there was little discussion from council members before the unanimous vote.

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