Kirk Marske, from Renew Moline, says renovations on the first floor include a piano showroom, recital room, and retail shop. He says the library is a special place for many people who grew up going there to borrow books and go to community events.
The Sound Conservatory's goal was to modernize the library building while preserving key, historical elements.
Marske says walking inside feels like a "time warp." The new owners are using part of the first floor as a piano showroom. And musical instruments and other items are displayed on the shelves.
The old, downtown library in Moline has been vacant for 15 years. It served as Moline's main public library for more than 100 years. Andrew Carnegie donated $40,000 to help build it in 1904. The current owner of the building is Dr. Kerry Panozzo.
The Sound Conservatory moved out of its storefront location at 1600 2nd Avenue in Rock Island. And its first concert featured local singer-songwriter, KAS, on Saturday night.
