Building Facts: Capitol Hill Branch

Project description: Replace existing branch

• Replace the 4,904-square-foot Henry Branch, 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.

 

Quick facts

• Project type: Replace existing branch
• Completion date: 2003
• Budget for capital costs: $5.7 million
• Total library program area: 11,615 square feet (formerly 4,904 square feet)
• Computers: 21 (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.

 

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 Branch 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 could be used only for construction of libraries, funded a new Central Library and new and improved branches.