Progress Reports ~ Albany's New Library
Thanks to a most generous donation from an anonymous Library "Friend," Albany is on schedule to have a new public Library in early 2009.
The Library will close (both Main and Downtown) during the move. The move should take place in February. As we learn more and firm up the dates, we will let you know.
The Library will close (both Main and Downtown) during the move. The move should take place in February. As we learn more and firm up the dates, we will let you know.
Lots of stories in the Library ...
The renovation of the former Unitrin Building has turned up some 'lost' treasures. The Unitrin Building was added onto twice. It has seen constructions crews in the past. Recently, as the interior demolition continues, interior walls were removed revealing windows that look out upon a brick wall - the wall of an addition. Behind the sheetrock and pasted to the windows are notes and pictures and cartoons from 1991 as employees said goodbye to their view outside. Zoom in and see if you recognize bits and pieces from 1991 ... stories from seventeen years ago.
Hard Hats
Books are heavy objects, especially when accumulated and stacked within a library. Albany's new LIBRARY is being re- engineered to handle the weight. Big beams are being added as structural support to keep the second floor safe and sound. Times and codes change. The shelving in the new LIBRARY will also be earthquake resistant. We don't want the books shaken and disturbed.
Libraries are like big cultural attics, complete with the history of our ancestors and information to solve current and future problems and interests. LIBRARIES carry the weight of our culture and society; they need big beams. The content of LIBRARIES can often stir things up, rattle one's sensibilities, or even provide some cathartic moment of synthesis. We need those earthquake resistant shelves to keep your LIBRARY working to rock your world.
Libraries are like big cultural attics, complete with the history of our ancestors and information to solve current and future problems and interests. LIBRARIES carry the weight of our culture and society; they need big beams. The content of LIBRARIES can often stir things up, rattle one's sensibilities, or even provide some cathartic moment of synthesis. We need those earthquake resistant shelves to keep your LIBRARY working to rock your world.
Deja Vue All Over Again ~ 1973
Library Staff gather by front door of the 'New Library' under construction 1973
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Building
When is the Library moving?
An existing building, located at 2450 14th Avenue S.E.--across from the Main Library--is currently being renovated. It is projected that the New Library will open in February 2009.
Is the new building bigger?
Yes. The new building is over 41,000 square feet, which includes space on two floors. This new building will allow more space for library materials and patrons, as well as more work space for staff and a larger community meeting area. The Friends of the Library will have space to operate a bookstore and accept donated books. The Linn Genealogical Society will return to the Library and offer research access and services.
Will the New Library be open more hours?
Yes, the New Library will be open for four hours on Sundays.
Are there going to be more books and computers?
There will be much more room for books and other library materials that will be added year-by-year. At least 30 public computer work stations are planned for the new building.
What is going to happen to the old building? The City-owned Main Library building is for sale.
Will the Carnegie Library remain open?
Yes. The Downtown Carnegie Branch, located at 302 Ferry Street S.W., will remain open.
Will the Library be closed during the move?
The Library will be closed during the move. We anticipate being closed at least two weeks in January.
Can I help with the move? To offer your help with the move please call (541) 917-7590.
Tell me about the Friends of the Library Centennial Campaign for Our Great Library.
The budget for the new building is $7 million. Over 70 percent of the budget has already been secured via a $5 million anonymous donation, the largest single gift to a public library in Oregon history! The Friends are running the Centennial Campaign for Our Great Library to raise the remaining $2 million.
How can I contribute to the new building?
You can go to the Library’s Web page at http://library.cityofalbany.net or the Library’s Blog at http://albanypubliclibrary.blogspot.com/ to print out a pledge form. (Look for “Pledge your support.”) Fill out the form and mail it to the Library:
Albany Public Library
1390 Waverly Drive S.E.
Albany, OR 97322-6945
Checks can also be left at the front desk of both Libraries. Checks should be made out to the Friends of the Albany Public Library.
For more information, please call (541) 917-7590.
Please pick up some informational brochures for your family and friends. We need your help to reach our fund-raising goal, and to demonstrate your support for the next 100 years of library services in Albany.
