March 31, 2026
By Rachel Scofield

The Pickerington Public Library is stepping outside its walls with the addition of the new Discovery Pavilion (Pickerington Main Library, 201 Opportunity Way), a space designed to facilitate more programs, events, and community gatherings.

The pavilion will officially open April 1 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 12:30 p.m., followed by a family-friendly “Bunny Party” at 1 p.m. The celebration will feature games, crafts, stories, a scavenger hunt, photos with Violet, and a live bunny visit, with activities taking place both inside the library and in the new outdoor space.

The $375,481 project was funded through the library’s planned capital fund. Library Director Tony Howard said the investment reflects a long-term approach to improving facilities without affecting daily operations.

“This project represents a proactive and fiscally responsible investment in our community,” Howard said. “By planning ahead, we’re able to expand our services and spaces in a sustainable way.”

The idea for the pavilion came about during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the library introduced temporary outdoor programming under tents.

“We saw a shift in how people were engaging with the library,” Howard said. “Many customers not only felt more comfortable outside at the time, but they also enjoyed it and continued to seek out those opportunities.”

That feedback led to the creation of a permanent outdoor structure, expanding the library’s ability to offer flexible programming — from children’s activities and family events to wellness initiatives and community gatherings.

The pavilion includes electrical access and can accommodate portable audiovisual equipment. The covered structure allows for up to 12 folding tables and provides protection from the elements, making it suitable for a wide range of uses.

Within the next few weeks, community members with library cards will be able to reserve the pavilion at no cost through the request form at PickeringtonLibrary.org. Staff will review each submission and notify patrons within a few days whether their reservations are approved. Library programming will receive priority.

The pavilion is also part of the library’s broader Facilities Master Plan, which addresses the needs of the community’s growing population. While larger expansions remain part of the long-term vision, Howard said projects like this allow the library to increase capacity in a fiscally responsible way.

He added that for every dollar invested in the library, the community receives $4.45 in value and savings through services like printing, access to books and movies, public Wi-Fi and computers, job search assistance, homework help and more — what the library calls “The $4.45 Difference.”

“At its core, the Discovery Pavilion is about more than just a new structure — it’s about creating opportunities for connection,” Howard said. “Strong libraries help build strong communities.”