Expanding the Douglass-Truth Branch

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Douglass-Truth Branch

Douglass-Truth Branch Status Report

Project description

• Expand existing branch library by 8,485 square feet.
• The expansion project included 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 8,008-square-foot historic branch opened in 1914 and the branch was upgraded in 1986.

Key contacts for the expanded Douglass-Truth Branch

• Douglass-Truth Branch: 206-684-4704
• Capital program office: 206-615-1698; capital.program@spl.org

Milestones

• October 2006: The expanded Douglass-Truth Branch of The Seattle Public Library reopened at noon Saturday, Oct. 14.
• June 2005: Construction began on the branch expansion.
• May 2005: The branch closed May 22 for construction on its expansion project.
• April 2005: The Seattle Public Library board of trustees directed the Library to proceed with awarding the construction contract for the branch expansion to the apparent low bidder, Construction Enterprises & Contractors Inc.
• May 2004: Seattle's Landmarks Preservation Board issued the Certificate of Approval for the branch expansion.
• June 2003: Residents attended an open house to see the design of the branch expansion.
• February 2003: Residents attended an open house to see the updated design of the branch expansion.
• June 2002: Mixed-media artist Vivian Linder, a Central District resident, was chosen to help create artwork for the expansion. Linder is the fourth community artist chosen under the innovative Art Partners program, which pairs an experienced artist with a community artist who has limited experience with public art.
• May 2002: Residents attended an open house to view early designs for the branch expansion.
• November 2001: The landmarks board voted to designate the branch as a landmark building. The Library worked with the landmarks board to preserve the architectural character of the building.
• October 2001: The Library Board selected Marita Dingus, an Auburn mixed-media artist, to design artwork for the branch. An advisory panel interviewed three artists and recommended Dingus for the job. Earlier in the month, residents attended a "hopes and dreams" meeting to share ideas on design, programs and services, collections, and artwork.
• May 2001: The Library Board selected Schacht Aslani Architects to design the branch expansion. An advisory panel that included Central District residents evaluated proposals and interviewed architect finalists. Earlier in the month, residents met architect finalists at a public reception.
• December 2000: Eleven architects answered the Library's call to apply to design the branch expansion.
• 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 a new Central Library and new and improved branches.

Quick facts

Next steps

• Branch completed.

See also "Libraries for All" 1998 Capital Plan (issued March 13, 1998).

Content Modified: 16 November 2006

11/16/2006

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