Building a New Capitol Hill Branch

Project description

Replace the 4,904-square-foot Henry Library, originally built in 1954.
The new branch has an updated collection capacity of 40,200 books and materials, more seats, program areas for children and teens, computers, a meeting room, and underground parking.
A 400-square-foot neighborhood service center is located on the mezzanine level.

Key contacts for the new Capitol Hill Branch

Milestones

May 2003: Residents enjoyed activities, food and music at the grand opening celebration of the new Capitol Hill Branch on Saturday, May 31.
December 2001: Construction began on the new branch.
Nov. 3, 2001: The Henry Library closed.
March 2001: Residents attended a meeting and viewed images developed during the final design phase.
November 2000: Residents saw the first images of the new branch at a public meeting.
September 2000: The Seattle Public Library board of trustees selected Seattle artist Iole Alessandrini to design artwork for the new branch.
May 2000: Residents attended a pre-design "hopes and dreams" meeting to share their ideas on design, services and programs, collections and artwork.
December 1999: The Library Board selected Johnston Architects and Cutler Architects to design the new branch.
October 1999: The Library Board voted to build the new branch on the current site, 425 Harvard Ave. E.
May 1999: Residents attended a second meeting regarding siting the new branch.
April 1999: Residents discussed potential sites at the first community meeting to talk about where to build the new branch.
November 1998: Seattle voters approved the $196.4 million "Libraries for All" bond measure. The bond money, which can be used only for construction of libraries, is funding new and improved branches as well as a new Central Library.

Quick facts

Project type	Replace existing branch
Schedule for completion	2003
Budget for capital costs	$5,731,066
Total library program area	11,215 square feet (formerly 4,904 square feet)
Computers	20 (formerly 14)
Artist	Iole Alessandrini
Art budget	$42,953
Library Board steward	Greg Maffei
Architects	Johnston Architects and Cutler Architects
Contractor	Summit Central Construction Inc.

Next steps

Content Modified: 26 July 2006

07/26/2006