WASHINGTON -- Apple previewed its new Carnegie Library on Mount Vernon Square on Thursday. The new location will officially open Saturday.
According to Apple, the library will promote learning, discovery and creativity for the community once again.
For six weeks after the opening, the StoryMaker Festival will be in town. It'll bring together 40 poets, musicians, photographers, activists, filmmakers and other artists to "celebrate storytelling and inspire attendees to tell their own stories," an Apple press release said.
The festival will end with a block party to celebrate the stories the community has created.
The Carnegie Library also features the new D.C. History Center, including the Kiplinger Research Library, three galleries and a museum store, Apple said -- all of which is owned and operated by the 125-year-old Historical Society of D.C.
The original Carnegie Library opened in 1903 and was funded by Andrew Carnegie.
According to Apple restoring and revamping the Beaux-Arts style building is one of its most extensive restoration projects yet. Much of the marble and sculptures on the south side of the building have been restored.
Nearly half of the store’s employees are Washington, D.C. residents, Apple said. Others come from different Apple stores across the country.
According to Apple, the team speaks 27 languages -- over 20 team members are fluent in American Sign Language.