Those passing by the Museum of Art Ft. Lauderdale lately, might have noticed the construction taking place. The $1 million project will bring some new elements to the Museum which organizers say will bring more of a 'community' feel to the complex. The construction is slated to be completed in January and the new addition will bring with it a new location for the boutique bookstore Books & Books (based in Coral Gables). The popular 'indy' bookstore is hoping to bring the same energy to Ft. Lauderdale as it brings to its Coral Gables location. Books & Books is known for bringing in some well known authors for book signings along with holding some seminars open to the public. They also plan children's events and host some live music small concert type functions.

With the new Books & Books location, there will also be a café, headed by Chef Allen Susser. His signature sandwiches and salads will be available to enjoy in the new Museum of Art plaza or take 'to go' and enjoy at the Huizenga Plaza across the street.

The new plaza at the Museum will contain some works of art, with the main piece being a translucent box illuminated from within giving off a soft bluish light. All of the new additions were carefully planned to keep the building's original architecture intact. The new additions will add a 'warmer', more inviting tone and will also be more compliant to those with physical disabilities. During the 2005 King Tut exhibit, it was noticed that the building did not totally comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act.

I haven't heard if they will be offering free Wi-Fi in the plaza, but if they do…it sounds like this new addition to the Ft. Lauderdale Museum of Art will be quite popular and bring some needed foot-traffic.