Renovation Plans and Learning Cottages

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Welcome to a revised new chapter at LLI! In August 2026, LLI will temporarily move out of the building to allow space for the county to renovate. The upgrades will include new windows, external doors, and a brand-new ducted HVAC system! The great news is, we don’t have to go far! The county has provided two Learning Cottages on the soccer field behind LLI, which will provide comparable classrooms, office, and lounge space. During the renovation of our beloved building, we’re excited to offer this convenient, comfortable, and close alternative space. Our commitment to engaging courses, welcoming community, and lifelong learning will remain unchanged. Thank you for your flexibility, confidence, and continued enthusiasm as we make this transition together. 

Q: What's the latest update?

A:  Making sure the Learning Cottages are ready for you is our top priority! We have been making great progress this month and just need a little more time to get everything in order. The Open House week we were hoping to have the week of August 24 has been postponed to the following week due to finalizing our move and getting settled in the Learning Cottages. Please note these upcoming date changes:

• Monday, August 24 - Friday, August 28: LLI will be closed as we finalize the move.
• Monday, August 31 - Thursday, September 3: stop by for a tour of the Learning Cottages!
• Tuesday, September 1: The August Birthday Celebration will be held at 12:00 PM in the Learning Cottage Lounge!

Thank you for your patience and flexibility as we navigate the moving and renovation process. We’re so close, and we’re grateful for your support! 

Q: When is this happening? 

A: The Summer 2026 session will run Monday, May 4 – Friday, August 21. In-person and online courses will be offered Monday, May 4 - Friday, July 31. The courses will all be online August 3-21 to allow ample time to physically move into the Learning Cottages. We’ll release the Fall 2026 catalog on Thursday, August 27, and have open house opportunities the week of August 31. The Fall 2026 session will run Tuesday, September 8 - Thursday, December 17. We’ll continue to communicate through our newsletter to keep everyone informed and connected.

🌟Purposeful Progress

Q: Why are we moving to the Learning Cottages?

A: Our building has a unique and fascinating history. Opened in 1948, it served as a school for African American children until desegregation led to its closure in 1969.

However, as many of our members know, the building does not have central heating or air conditioning. Instead, we rely on radiators and noisy window units that constantly compete to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This renovation will provide:

• Central heating and air conditioning
• New exterior doors
• New, more energy-efficient windows
• Updated beverage station in the Lounge
• Sprinklers throughout the building

During construction, all classes will be held in the Learning Cottages located on the field behind the building. We estimate that the construction will last about a year.

🚗Parking Availability

Q: Where are we going to park when the Learning Cottages open?

A: In all the normal places! Both LLI parking lots will be open during the renovation and parking will be available in the church lot across the street.

Notes:

• Members using LLI transportation will be dropped off in new rideshare spots next to the pathway to the Learning Cottages.
• Signs will be posted to designate parking for people with limited mobility. These spots aren’t just for those with handicapped tags, and we are asking that everyone be considerate.
• Members that are able and willing to walk longer distances can park at the church or in the lot on the opposite side of the building.
• Benches will be available next to the path for those who need to take a break!

🧭 General Operations

Q: Will the Office, staff, and volunteers still be available for questions, registration, and general support during the renovation? 

A: Yes! Our office team will continue to be available to assist with registration, answering questions, and to provide support throughout the time in the Learning Cottages.

Q: Will the course catalog change during the renovation? 

A: No—the course catalog will remain the same, so you can expect the same great offerings and format.

Q: How will updates and announcements be shared during the renovation? 

A: We’ll continue to communicate through our newsletter, email updates, and in-person announcements to keep everyone informed and connected.

Q: Will anything else be changing during the renovation? 

A: While the heart of LLI remains the same—engaging courses, welcoming community, and lifelong learning—there will be a few temporary adjustments. We’ll keep communication clear and transitions smooth to ensure this is a seamless and even exciting chapter in our shared journey.

🚶 Accessibility & Navigation

Q: Will there be any changes to accessibility or mobility accommodations during the renovation? 

A: No changes! Our transportation program will continue to be available throughout the renovation, as funding allows, ensuring that all members have reliable access to classes and campus resources. All spaces will be accessible by ramps and mobility-device friendly.

Q: Will all the classrooms be under one roof during the renovation? 

A: The Learning Cottages include two buildings connected by a walkway. One cottage will house the Office, Classrooms 1–4, and the Lecture Room. The other will include the Lounge, Library, and Classrooms 5 and 6. The cottages will be just steps apart, making it easy to move between classes.

Q: Will the classrooms be numbered the same during the renovation? 

A: Yes! Classroom numbers will remain the same in the Learning Cottages, making it easy to find your class just as you always have.

Q: Will outdoor seating or gathering spaces be available near the Learning Cottages? 

A: Yes! Picnic tables are available under the nearby trees, offering a peaceful spot to relax, chat, or enjoy lunch between classes.

Q: Will signage be available to help members navigate the temporary setup? 

A: Absolutely—clear signage will be posted throughout the Learning Cottages to help members and instructors find their way with ease.

🧑‍🏫 Instructor Support

Q: Will instructors be able to use the copier and office supplies during the renovation? 

A: Yes! The Learning Cottages will include office space equipped with copier access and essential supplies, so instructors can continue preparing materials and supporting their classes as usual.

Q: Will classroom technology (like projectors or whiteboards) be available in the Learning Cottages? 

A: Yes! Classroom technology such as projectors and whiteboards will be available in the Learning Cottages to support interactive and engaging instruction.

☕ Member Amenities

Q: Will coffee or refreshments be available in the Lounge during the renovation? 

A: Yes! The Lounge in the Learning Cottages will continue to offer coffee and a welcoming space for members to gather, connect, and even find a good book to read!

💛 Confidence and Calm 

Q: I’m worried about what it will be like in the Learning Cottages. Can you tell me more?

A: Absolutely! Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

• Each cottage includes accessible bathrooms with adult-sized toilets and running water.
• All but one classroom (Classroom 4) is slightly larger than those in our current building.
• ADA-compliant pathways from the parking lots to the entrances will be available.
• Ramps and stairs into both buildings are available.
• All existing parking lots will remain open throughout the building renovation.
• Both cottages feature central heating and air condition - no window units or radiators!

While in the Learning Cottages, we will temporarily have reduced lounge, hallway, and library space; however, the Learning Cottages are designed to provide a comfortable and accessible environment during renovations.