The 2019 voter-approved Library Levy provided $13.8 million in funding to seismically retrofit the historic Green Lake, University and Columbia branches.
A survey identified the three unreinforced Carnegie buildings as high-risk for damage and loss of life in the event of a major earthquake. The 2016 survey was conducted by the city Department of Construction and Inspection, which advised these buildings be retrofitted in the next seven years.
The seismic upgrade to each of these landmarked buildings is estimated to take approximately 18 months to complete. The buildings will be closed during construction.
Detailed information on each project, including building closure dates and alternative services, will be shared as it becomes available.
Project Overview
The Green Lake Branch, one of The Seattle Public Library’s historically landmarked Carnegie buildings, will temporarily close from Feb.1, 2023 through early 2024 while undergoing a seismic retrofit and other major renovations, including the installation of a new HVAC system, accessibility improvements and interior modernization. This project, funded by the 2019 Library Levy, provides a unique opportunity to make the Green Lake Branch safer and better able to meet the needs of the community while preserving its important architectural legacy.
The improvements and renovations to the Green Lake Branch will include: