Families in Bridgeport are excited about a new public library branch opening up in their neighborhood.

The East Side Branch Library has already opened up to the public, and organizers tell News 12 there are big plans for it.

Branch librarian Jodi Weisz says the new facility will be a two-story branch with the whole second floor reserved for children and teenager activities.

Librarians say they are also planning events, classes and community gatherings. They also will have an in-house recording studio.

Weisz says libraries offer access to education and information but also can be important community gathering spaces.

"The library has become something called third space," Weisz says. "It's not your home, it's not your work, it's the place though where you meet your neighbors."

This is the third time the Bridgeport Public Library has tried to open a branch on the east side.

The library will be holding a grand opening and open house on Feb. 1.