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 (August 29, 2024)

REVITALIZING OUR LIBRARY:
Milestones in the Renovation Process

As summer draws to a close, the revitalization of our Main Library is approaching its final stages. The progress made in recent weeks brings us ever closer to unveiling a modern, welcoming space designed to serve as a cornerstone for community engagement, learning, and connection. Here’s what’s been happening:

EXTERIOR ENHANCEMENTS:

Clearing the Way

The temporary trailer area has been fully dismantled and removed, leaving the north end of the site cleared and ready for landscaping.
We’re excited to announce that the parking lot paving and striping have been completed. This newly finished area not only enhances accessibility but also improves the overall functionality of the site, providing ample, well-marked parking spaces for our patrons.
The sidewalk improvements along the roadway are pending a key meeting with Town of Brookhaven officials, after which work will proceed promptly.

Advanced Environmental Systems

Our state-of-the-art Innovative/Alternative Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (I/A system) has successfully passed its final inspection. This advanced septic system is specifically designed to reduce nitrogen emissions, safeguarding our underground aquifer, and demonstrating our commitment to environmental sustainability.

INTERIOR DEVELOPMENTS:

Walls That Work

The installation of the K.I. Genius architectural walls is well underway. These walls are not just partitions — they are versatile, high-performance systems that can be configured to create dynamic, efficient spaces within our library. With their customizable designs and sustainable materials, the Genius walls are setting a new standard for interior environments.

Final Touches

We’re in the process of testing the newly installed fire alarm systems to ensure the highest level of safety for everyone who will use our space.
Wall-mounted book shelving, which has been in storage, is now being assembled and installed, ready to showcase our extensive collection in the weeks to come.
Contractors are addressing the final punch list items, ensuring every detail meets our high standards.
A thorough cleaning of the entire building is scheduled for the coming weeks, preparing our new spaces for the final inspection by state authorities, anticipated in early September.
Furniture deliveries are slated to begin in September and will continue into mid-October, bringing us one step closer to completion.

Looking Ahead

As we move closer to the finish line, our excitement builds for the day when we can welcome you back to a fully transformed library. The work we’re doing now is about more than just bricks and mortar; it’s about creating a vibrant, adaptable space that will meet the evolving needs of our community for years to come.

Thank you for your continued support and patience as we complete this monumental project. Stay tuned for more updates, and be sure to come back here to this page for the latest news.

Gratitude and Appreciation

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in this project, from our dedicated staff to the contractors, architects, engineers, and, of course, our patrons. Your support has been invaluable, and together, we are building a brighter future for our community.

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.