Mayor Rahm Emanuel joined Alderman Roderick Sawyer, Chicago Public Library Commissioner Brian Bannon and Public Building Commission Executive Director Carina Sanchez to break ground on the complete renovation and modernization of the Whitney M. Young, Jr. Library at 7901 S. King Drive. The $12 million investment will incorporate the exterior walls of the existing structure into the envelope of the new building to create a modern, state-of-the-art branch. The new branch will provide the neighborhood with a modern library space that continues to serve as an essential community anchor, providing critical services and resources to meet a variety of local needs. It will feature an Early Learning play space for children, YOUmedia digital lab for teens, additional seating, state-of-the-art furniture and equipment, meeting and study spaces, expanded computer access and ADA accessibility throughout the building. Whitney Young Branch will also be one of three Experience Labs. In October of last year, Mayor Emanuel along with David L. Cohen announced that Comcast would be making a $250,000 Internet Essentials investment with the Chicago Public Library Foundation bringing together three CPL programs into unique “Experience Labs” powered by Internet Essentials for Chicagoans of all ages to enjoy. Current programming includes YOUmedia, CyberNavigator digital skills tutoring for adults, and Maker Lab programming. Whitney Young will be one of only three other locations outside of HWLC to currently offer Maker Lab programs.