SPRINGFIELD, Mass (WWLP) – Improved access to a historical library branch in downtown Springfield.

Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and City Library Director Molly Fogarty cut the ribbon, unveiling the new ramp and plaza at the library Wednesday morning.

A disabled Springfield woman was also invited to help open the newly upgraded entrance-way.

A proud moment for Goldie Clark, who loves coming to the Springfield Central library branch several times a week from her home on nearby Chestnut Street.

In the past, Goldie’s had access problems with the previous entrance at the rear of the building. She told 22News, “Trying to get up those stairs was kind of hard and when I went there and they were closed, I didn’t know what to do.”

But now, two years after local lawmakers helped secure $4 million in state funds, access to the back of the library building has been greatly improved, brought in compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act.

Once the word gets out, it’s expected the more welcoming entrance-way will attract far more of the people who visit the Springfield Museums at the quadrangle.

More than 400, 000 people visited the downtown Central Library last year. With this improved link to the quadrangle, the library director hopes to see that number increase substantially.