Contact: Donna Corbeil, Library Director
510-981-6195
Beginning Monday, May 7th, the West Branch Library will be closed for approximately 15 months to allow for the construction of a new 9,300 square foot library. To celebrate the beginning of construction for the new library a community event will be held on Saturday, April 14th, 2012 from 2:30 to 4:30 pm, everyone is invited. Refreshments and entertainment are planned with a brief program at 2:45 p.m. and musical group Colibri performing music for the whole family at 3:30. The last open day for public service will be Saturday, May 5th, 2012. We extend our thanks and appreciation to everyone for their support of Measure FF and, since that time, participation in the public design and approval process which has brought us to this milestone. The new library will be built following the demolition of the current facility. The replacement Library, designed by the Harley Ellis Devereaux – Greenworks Studio, will be a Zero Net Energy building and will meet all current codes, with adequate space to accommodate all library and adult literacy programs. Features include a quiet study room, teen room, program room that can be used for multiple purposes throughout the day, increased computer access, improved access to collections and comfortable seating for adults and children, to create an oasis for learning and reading as envisioned by the community during the planning process. During the closure, patrons are encouraged to visit the remaining open library facilities. In addition, Library BranchVan service will begin on Monday, May 7th, 2012 on Allston Way, just west of 9th St., near Rosa Parks School. Summer storytimes will be held on Saturdays at Rosa Parks School, starting on June 16th, 2012. Check out the Library’s Branch Construction Projects webpage or pick up a West Branch Temporary Closure Guide for more service information during the temporary closure that includes the BranchVan and children’s storytime schedules. Berkeley READS, Berkeley Public Library’s Adult Literacy Service, will be operating out of the Central Library during this temporary closure. The Library will continue to post project information and updates on its website at:https://www.berkeleypubliclibrary.org/about/planning/about-library-bond-faq1 and hopes to see you at the West Branch Library grand re-opening, anticipated in Spring 2013. We look forward to bringing you a beautiful, current code compliant, seismically safe, fully accessible green building in the near future. The branch library improvement program is funded by Measure FF, passed by voters in November 2008. For more information call 510-981-6195.
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