Construction Enterprises and Contractors Inc. will begin work tomorrow on the expansion of The Seattle Public Library’s Douglass-Truth Branch, 2300 E. Yesler Way.
Schacht/Aslani Architects designed the addition to be spacious and light, while still relating to the original branch built in 1914.
The branch will grow from 8,008 square feet to 16,493 square feet. It will include an updated collection of books and materials, more room and better accessibility for the African-American Collection, a new children’s area, more seating and computers, larger and more efficient staff work areas and upgraded electrical, mechanical and ventilation systems.
The expanded branch also will include artwork by Auburn mixed-media artist Marita Dingus, who is creating sculpted pieces made from discarded materials. The Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs manages the Library’s public art program.
The overall project budget is $6,734,252, which includes the Library Board-approved addition on May 24, 2005, of $1,886,199 for construction and associated costs.
The expanded branch, which is expected to open in the second half of 2006, is part of the $196.4 million “Libraries for All” bond measure that Seattle voters passed in 1998. The bond money, which can be used only for construction of libraries, is funding new and improved branches, in addition to the new Central Library.
To date, the Library has completed the new Central Library and the Ballard, Beacon Hill, Capitol Hill, Columbia, Delridge, Fremont, Green Lake, Greenwood, High Point, International District/Chinatown Branch, NewHolly, North East, Rainier Beach, Wallingford and West Seattle branches. Many other branches are in the planning, design or construction phase.
The Seattle Public Library Foundation continues to raise funds from private sources to enhance the public bond commitment and keep pace with the demands of patrons for a high level of library service. Every dollar raised will ensure a level of excellence in the Library’s facilities, collections, and programs that would not be possible through its tax-based support alone.
For more information about “Libraries for All” or the Foundation, visit the Library’s Web site at www.spl.org.
(For more information, call Caroline Young Ullmann, assistant communications director, 206-615-1627.)
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Content modified: 16 June 2005
12/30/2005
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