Building Facts: Madrona-Sally Goldmark Branch

 

Project description: Renovate existing branch

• The renovation includes new seating, upgraded technology services and equipment, better electrical, communication and computer connections, more efficient circulation desk and work areas, improved ventilation, a modern mechanical system and an updated book collection.
• The branch opened in a converted firehouse in 1973. It is heavily used by area residents and schoolchildren. The building was upgraded in 1986 at a cost of $84,854, but problems remained with its layout, program and work areas, and electrical and ventilation systems.

Quick facts

• Project type: Renovate existing branch
• Completion date: 2008
• Budget for capital costs: $893,000
• Total library program area: 1,707 square feet
• Computers: 9 (formerly 6)
• Artist: Mary Iverson, Monad Elohim
• Art budget: $7,416
• Library Board steward: Michael Parham
• Architect: Heliotrope Architects
• Contractor: Cope Construction Co.

Milestones

• May 2008: The renovated Madrona-Sally Goldmark Branch of The Seattle Public Library reopened at noon Saturday, May 10.
• November 2007: The Seattle Public Library board of trustees selected an oil painting by Mary Iverson and a ceramic sculpture by Monad Elohim to display in the renovated branch. Both are Seattle artists.
• August 2007: Construction began on the branch renovation.
• June 2007: The branch closed for renovation on Saturday, June 16.
• May 2007: The Library Board voted to award the construction contract to the sole bidder, Cope Construction Co., after the Library and the contractor negotiated a better price than Cope's original bid. Cope worked with its subcontractors to achieve savings.
• April 2007: Construction bids for the branch renovation came in higher than expected.
• November 2006: Residents were invited to an open house to see the design of the interior renovation of the branch.
• September 2006: Residents attended an open house to see the design of the interior renovation.
• April 2006: The Seattle Public Library board of trustees authorized the architects to adapt the Library's Universal Building Program to better reflect usage patterns for the Madrona-Sally Goldmark Branch. The board agreed the branch should emphasize materials for children, popular fiction, DVDs, and space for holds pick-up.
• January 2006: The Library Board selected Heliotrope Architects to design the interior renovations
• 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.