Libraries aren't known for being stylish and hip places, and everyone remembers being shushed at least once by a matronly librarian. That's about to change at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh's main branch in Oakland. Imagine sipping a latte, reading "War and Peace" or "The Da Vinci Code" in a courtyard while idle conversation takes place in the background. Thursday, library customers -- they're not called patrons anymore -- will be able to indulge in all of the above when the Oakland branch unveils renovations that include: The courtyard, in a space previously used for ventilation and can be accessed only from the interior of the library. A cafe offering coffees, teas and other refreshments. A section aimed at attracting teenagers that will feature a multi-media communications systems and film and video classes. "People are accustomed to having coffee and a comfortable place to sit at home or at bookstores," says Karen Rossi, manager of first-floor services at the Oakland branch. "We think it's a perfect blend. It's an opportunity for people to look at the library as a destination, a place where they can come in and relax, read a good book and have a cup of coffee or mocha." Rossi says some of the changes were spurred by the popularity of Borders Bookstores, Barnes & Noble Booksellers and other venues that allow customers to linger while they read and enjoy beverages. The improvements are part of a $59 million capital improvement program to renovate all 18 Pittsburgh branches of the Carnegie Library system as well as the main library. Money for the program will come from a bond issue backed by funds from the Allegheny Regional Asset District, a capital campaign and private donors. Rossi says many of the improvements are a result of focus groups conducted by library staff. "We actually gave people assignments, to go find this particular book, this particular item," Rossi says. "People came back frustrated because they weren't able to do it. That's when we realized we had to make some major changes to help people find things." The library changes are attitudinal as well as physical. Instead of insisting on silence, the library will encourage conversation and interaction by hosting discussion groups. Library staff also will be encouraged to be more active and customer-oriented. "The whole idea of the renovation is to focus everything on the customer," Rossi says. "To make the library easier to use, more easily understandable. The staff will be friendly and helpful, and the system will be easier to use as well, with a new Web page design and a new layout of the catalog." A grand opening, with the public invited, is scheduled for noon to 5 p.m. Oct. 3.

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