Main Library Building

Update

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Structural Engineer’s Report

Concerning issues uncovered at the main library building (407 William Floyd Parkway) that require remediation:

Construction Update (May 10, 2023)

Significant progress has been made on the interior of the library. The installation of underground plumbing and electrical systems is now complete. Plumbing has already been backfilled, and concrete has been poured into the trenches. Fire sprinkler piping has been installed in the cellar level, and plumbing work will now focus on sanitary piping and roof drainage. Additionally, ductwork has begun on the lower levels.

The exterior of the library is also coming together nicely, with 90 percent of the exterior framing now complete. Roof level blocking, framing, and sheathing has begun, preparing the structure for the installation of a new roof, which has begun last month. The sheathing of exterior walls and weather barriers is well underway, while the cultured stonework started last month as well.

As part of the remedial structural work, the damaged roof decking was replaced last month.

Construction Update (March 18, 2023)

The fire spraying work on the lower levels is complete. The preparation and lath work will continue at the roof level through April. Much of the concrete work was completed including a new elevator foundation, slab patch work in the community room, revised foundation at the entrance, and all remedial work identified by our engineer. Steel has been facbricated and the framing is under installation. Exterior carpentry was recently bid and should start shortly.

PSEG representatives toured all three library sites and now have the information necessary for their energy efficiency grants, with a decision forthcoming shortly.

Construction Update (November 5, 2022)

When the main library’s exterior demolition was completed, engineers identified a number of unanticipated issues — related to previous renovation projects — that require immediate remediation. The primary issues focus on enhancing the structural integrity of the elevator shafts and making them ADA compliant, steel beams with insufficient support, as well as exterior wall fortification. These unforeseen issues will add time to the main building construction process.

While the cost of this remediation work has not been fully determined, the library cannot borrow more than the $22.7-million-dollar amount authorized by voters. Moreover, the library trustees are commited to not going back to the community to ask for additional borrowing. Instead, we will be aggressively seeking private foundation and government grants, as well as working with the construction team to identify all available cost-saving options. Our goal is to deliver modern, state-of-the-art library buildings that the community deserves and needs.

Revisions to the 45,000 square foot Main Library Building will be comprehensive from the inside out.

There will be more quiet spaces to work and study, as well as additional meeting/activity rooms to provide more sessions of educational programs, ranging from chair yoga to cooking classes to courses on prepping for the high school equivalency exam.

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The renovations also include substantial technology updates including a state-of-the-art network infrastructure to support new computer labs, high-speed internet, and makerspaces including 3D printers, virtual reality, and coding/robotics. In addition, the library will have IP phones, new audio/video systems in meeting rooms, teleconference systems, assistive listening devices, and charging stations for devices. An automated self-return/sorting system will save time and money.

The new library will feature an updated indoor performance space with a full stage, ADA-compliant restrooms for public and staff, added and improved security cameras, a lounge area to use laptops and charge devices, and expanded public seating and program rooms in every department.
Aside from additional space for our book and media collections, the new library will feature an archival room for safe storage of important local history collections.

More privacy, fewer distractions

The entrance lobby and front desk area will be separated from the adult section by a soundproof glass partition. Since many transactions occur at the front desk, separating this area of nearly continuous activity will make it significantly quieter on the rest of the floor. Partitioning off a computer lab area and adult reading lounge within the adult space will also add more quiet areas, as sounds from interactions at the information desk will be blocked by the new glass partitions. Following the renovation, adults will be able to enjoy an enclosed computer area and a separate quiet reading lounge area removed from the hub of transactions and phone conversations.

Staff offices – slated to be moved to the lower level – will also be repurposed into meeting rooms, program spaces, and study spaces for our customers.