PRESS RELEASES
CONSTRUCTION BEGINS AS DOWNTOWN CENTRAL LIBRARY EMBARKS ON MULTIYEAR RENOVATION PLAN
June 30, 2004 - Buffalo , NY - Construction began at the Central Library this week, kicking-off a multiyear renovation plan themed, “The Best from Our Past, The Best for Our Future,” announced Director Michael C. Mahaney . Completed in 1964, the Central Library building has not undergone any major upgrades in its 40-year history.
In the fall of 2001, the B&ECPL enlisted Habiterra Design Group of Jamestown , NY to conduct a space utilization and design study of the Central Library. The six-month study examined ways to create a more inviting and user-friendly facility for patrons as well as improve access and exhibition of rare and special materials. Based on Library staff input and collection statistics, the findings generated recommendations for numerous interdependent projects, which have formed the basis for renovation plans. Qualified firms were then considered to oversee the planning, design and construction of the project, with Habiterra selected to continue as the project's architect and partner firm Jag Teckna retained for design and planning services.
Involving approximately 65% of its public areas, the renovation will completely transform the Central Library with new lighting, more exhibit space, enhanced programming venues and an overall more appealing atmosphere. The current phase is concentrating on the main entrance, incorporating a redesigned Borrower's Service area and striking decorative elements. In addition, a full-service café and seating area will be opened. Slated to begin in January 2005, the second phase will focus on the popular materials area, capturing the ambience and comfort of a large chain bookstore. The Ring of Knowledge area will also get a make over to enhance programming opportunities. Future phases include the Children's Room, which will be renovated with an urban park theme, and the Grosvenor Room, which will feature a larger, more accessible exhibit space to highlight the Central Library's treasures.
“With demand for services at an unprecedented high, the five-year renovation plans for the Central Library offer an opportunity to transform the 40-year-old building into a 21 st century regional destination, serving the 950,000 people residing in Erie County more effectively and efficiently,” said Mahaney. “The redevelopment and revitalization of the library will create a more accessible, appealing facility that will serve as a downtown center for education, culture and entertainment.”
The Central Library will remain open for business during the entire renovation process. Operations within the current construction area will be relocated temporarily.
The Central Library renovation is expected to cost $15.5 million. As owner of the building, Erie County has been asked to provide more than $10 million through capital project outlays over multiple years. During the construction process, asbestos in public area ceilings will also be abated. The remainder of the necessary funding will be generated through donations and grants. More than $1 million is already committed from the largest bequest in the history of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library. In 1999, the Library was the sole beneficiary of the estates of life-long Western New York residents Richard L. Kreiger and Robert J. Krieger .
The Buffalo and Erie County Public Library System, comprised of the Central Library, 15 city branches, 36 contract library facilities and mobile and outreach services, is dedicated to enriching the lives of Erie County's diverse community members by providing open and equal access to information and technology. For further information, contact the Office of Community Relations at 858-7182 or visit the Library's website at www.buffalolib.org.