New Libraries Now
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
South Branch/Tool Lending Library
1901 Russell Street
In 2008, Berkeley voters passed Measure FF to issue bonds to fund necessary upgrades for seismic safety and accessibility for the disabled at Berkeley’s branch libraries. Prior to passage of FF, Berkeley’s neighborhood branch libraries had not been renovated in more than 30 years. A July 2008 Branch Libraries Facilities Master Plan revealed the city’s four neighborhood branches as crowded spaces suffering from structural deficiencies. The buildings are not ADA-accessible, and lack the infrastructure to meet current and future technology needs.
What are the proposed plans for the South Branch Library?
After significant public input, the Board of Library Trustees voted to replace the existing decaying building of 5,400 sq. ft. with a new, larger 8,656 sq. ft. building that complies with all current codes including being seismically safe and fully ADA-accessible. The branch’s outdated and unsafe electrical, mechanical and structural elements will be replaced with elements that will serve the South Berkeley community into the future.
Who are the project architects?
After a public selection process, Field Paoli Architects of San Francisco was selected for the project.
Will the tool lending library remain?
The South Branch’s unique Tool Lending library will have a larger space with improved storage and display of the large collection of tools. The plans for the new library will retain two designated parking spaces for ease of tool drop-off and pick-up.
Did the Library consider renovating the existing South Branch building?
After Measure FF passed in November 2008, Field Paoli Architects studied design options for the South Branch and Tool Lending Library including scenarios that retained and reused portions of the existing library. However, structural testing of the existing building revealed that the existing structure does not comply with current building codes and could result in structural failure due to shearing during an earthquake. Additionally, the study found there was inadequate roof support to renovate. The existing building would require extensive and expensive structural strengthening to achieve seismic integrity and would necessarily result in changes to the appearance of the building.
Has the community been involved in the design process for the building?
During the design process, the Berkeley Public Library held four neighborhood community meetings at the South Branch to solicit the public’s input. Additionally, the Board of Library Trustees held four design presentations during their regularly scheduled meetings at which the public could comment on the design plans. On October 14, 2009, the Trustees considered both renovating and replacing the existing structure and voted to recommend that the existing library be demolished and replaced as the best option to meet long term library needs.
What will be some of the benefits of the upgraded South Branch Library?
Beyond being a larger building with improved facilities, the new South Branch / Tool Lending Library will be a warm and welcoming building with improved lighting, ventilation, and thermal comfort. It will be easier to use with a more spacious and organized layout with the flexibility needed to meet future needs. The new building is intended to be a civic presence for pedestrians and contribute to the revitalization of the South Berkeley neighborhood
Will there be an environmental review process for the upgrades at the South Branch Library?
The Planning Department is currently preparing an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the branch, which will study the project’s potential impact to topics such as air quality, cultural resources and noise pollution. More information about this is on the City of Berkeley Planning Department web site.
Are any green elements being contemplated as part of the construction efforts?
Yes. Berkeley has a commitment to a green future and the new library design will reduce energy and water consumption. The architecture team will be working to achieve LEED Silver certification.
When will the renovation project begin?
Construction is anticipated to begin in the first quarter of 2012 and continue for 12 months.
Is the existing South Branch Library a Landmark?
No, it has not been designated by the City’s Landmark’s commission. The building has undergone several renovations and add-ons since it first opened in 1961. Portions of the library built in 1961 and 1974 are eligible for listing in the California Register due to their age. This is a topic that will be further studied in the EIR.
Will the South Branch Library close during construction?
The South Branch Library will close during the demolition and reconstruction of the building. Branch Libraries will be closed on a rotating basis so that no more than two at a time are closed for upgrades. Patrons will still be able to visit the other branch libraries and the bookvan at scheduled stops.
Will the amount of books increase as a result of this upgrade at South Branch?
There is no planned expansion of the book collection, but more seating and computers are planned in a more spacious and comfortable layout.
How much will the new building cost?
The total cost of the upgrades to the South Branch Library is $6,329,520.
How do I find out more information about the planned upgrades for the South Branch?
For more project information, please visit the Berkeley Public Library’s website at http://berkeleypubliclibrary.org/branchimprovements or call (510) 981-6195.
What are the proposed plans for the South Branch Library?
After significant public input, the Board of Library Trustees voted to replace the existing decaying building of 5,400 sq. ft. with a new, larger 8,656 sq. ft. building that complies with all current codes including being seismically safe and fully ADA-accessible. The branch’s outdated and unsafe electrical, mechanical and structural elements will be replaced with elements that will serve the South Berkeley community into the future.
Who are the project architects?
After a public selection process, Field Paoli Architects of San Francisco was selected for the project.
Will the tool lending library remain?
The South Branch’s unique Tool Lending library will have a larger space with improved storage and display of the large collection of tools. The plans for the new library will retain two designated parking spaces for ease of tool drop-off and pick-up.
Did the Library consider renovating the existing South Branch building?
After Measure FF passed in November 2008, Field Paoli Architects studied design options for the South Branch and Tool Lending Library including scenarios that retained and reused portions of the existing library. However, structural testing of the existing building revealed that the existing structure does not comply with current building codes and could result in structural failure due to shearing during an earthquake. Additionally, the study found there was inadequate roof support to renovate. The existing building would require extensive and expensive structural strengthening to achieve seismic integrity and would necessarily result in changes to the appearance of the building.
Has the community been involved in the design process for the building?
During the design process, the Berkeley Public Library held four neighborhood community meetings at the South Branch to solicit the public’s input. Additionally, the Board of Library Trustees held four design presentations during their regularly scheduled meetings at which the public could comment on the design plans. On October 14, 2009, the Trustees considered both renovating and replacing the existing structure and voted to recommend that the existing library be demolished and replaced as the best option to meet long term library needs.
What will be some of the benefits of the upgraded South Branch Library?
Beyond being a larger building with improved facilities, the new South Branch / Tool Lending Library will be a warm and welcoming building with improved lighting, ventilation, and thermal comfort. It will be easier to use with a more spacious and organized layout with the flexibility needed to meet future needs. The new building is intended to be a civic presence for pedestrians and contribute to the revitalization of the South Berkeley neighborhood
Will there be an environmental review process for the upgrades at the South Branch Library?
The Planning Department is currently preparing an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the branch, which will study the project’s potential impact to topics such as air quality, cultural resources and noise pollution. More information about this is on the City of Berkeley Planning Department web site.
Are any green elements being contemplated as part of the construction efforts?
Yes. Berkeley has a commitment to a green future and the new library design will reduce energy and water consumption. The architecture team will be working to achieve LEED Silver certification.
When will the renovation project begin?
Construction is anticipated to begin in the first quarter of 2012 and continue for 12 months.
Is the existing South Branch Library a Landmark?
No, it has not been designated by the City’s Landmark’s commission. The building has undergone several renovations and add-ons since it first opened in 1961. Portions of the library built in 1961 and 1974 are eligible for listing in the California Register due to their age. This is a topic that will be further studied in the EIR.
Will the South Branch Library close during construction?
The South Branch Library will close during the demolition and reconstruction of the building. Branch Libraries will be closed on a rotating basis so that no more than two at a time are closed for upgrades. Patrons will still be able to visit the other branch libraries and the bookvan at scheduled stops.
Will the amount of books increase as a result of this upgrade at South Branch?
There is no planned expansion of the book collection, but more seating and computers are planned in a more spacious and comfortable layout.
How much will the new building cost?
The total cost of the upgrades to the South Branch Library is $6,329,520.
How do I find out more information about the planned upgrades for the South Branch?
For more project information, please visit the Berkeley Public Library’s website at http://berkeleypubliclibrary.org/branchimprovements or call (510) 981-6195.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
West Branch Library
1125 University Avenue
In 2008, Berkeley voters passed Measure FF to issue bonds to fund necessary upgrades for seismic safety and accessibility for the disabled at Berkeley’s branch libraries. Prior to passage of FF, Berkeley’s neighborhood branch libraries had not been renovated in more than 30 years. A July 2008 Branch Libraries Facilities Master Plan revealed the city’s four neighborhood branches as crowded spaces suffering from structural deficiencies. The buildings are not ADA-accessible, and lack the infrastructure to meet current and future technology needs.
What are the proposed plans for the West Branch Library?
After significant public input, the Board of Library Trustees voted to replace the existing building of 6,230 sq. ft. with a new, larger 9,300 sq. ft. building that complies with all current codes including being seismically safe and fully ADA-accessible. Proposed plans address the problems of the rotting and decaying substructure, the inefficient energy use, the lack of fire sprinkler systems, and the lack of space for programming, meeting and literacy tutoring.
Who are the project architects?
After a public selection process, the design team of Harley Ellis Devereaux – Greenworks Studio (www.hedev.com) was selected to work on the West Branch Project.
Did the Library consider renovating the existing West Branch building?
The current branch was constructed in 1923 and expanded in 1974. The architects presented alternative schemes, including a design reconstructing what remains of the 2,000 sq. ft. 1923 portion of the building and replacing the 1974 addition with new construction. In order to renovate the older portion, it would have to be lifted and moved to be seismically reconstructed before it could be reintegrated into a functioning library.
A supplemental design study revealed that it would not be possible to both restore the 1923 portion to its original appearance and fit the required library program without providing new space at a much higher cost. For these reasons and others, the Board of Library Trustees voted to replace the building and give the community the most functional, efficient and welcoming branch the budget would allow.
Has the community been involved in the design process for the West Branch Library?
Yes, this project has included extensive discussion with the public about their service needs. During the design process, three neighborhood community meetings to solicit the public’s input have been held, and four presentations have been made to the Board of Library Trustees.
What will be some of the benefits of the upgraded West Branch Library?
Beyond being a larger building with improved facilities, the new West Branch Library will be the first Net Zero Energy Library in the country. The design maximizes space for the community’s needs, including a teen reading room, space for the adult literacy program, a quiet study room, a multiple purpose program room, increased computer access to collections and comfortable seating for adults and children. It will be more spacious, organized, and efficient with the layout and flexibility needed to meet future needs. The new building is intended to be a positive presence along University Avenue, contributing to the revitalization of the West Berkeley neighborhood
Will there be an environmental review process for the upgrades at the West Branch Library?
The Planning Department is currently preparing an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the branch, which will study the project’s potential impact to topics such as air quality, cultural resources and noise pollution.
Are any green elements being contemplated as part of the construction efforts?
The West Berkeley Branch Library design reflects Berkeley’s commitment to a green future by achieving Zero Net Energy. Maximization of natural lighting opportunities and reduced energy consumption means this state-of-the-art facility will be without a carbon footprint. Berkeleyans will enjoy housing the first Net Zero Energy Library in the country.
Is the existing West Branch Library a Landmark?
No, it has not been designated by the City’s Landmark’s Commission but it is considered by the City of Berkeley to be a Structure of Merit.
Will the West Branch Library close during construction?
The West Branch Library will close during the demolition and reconstruction of the building. Libraries will be closed on a rotating basis so that no more than two at a time are closed for upgrades. Patrons will still be able to visit the other branch libraries and the book van at scheduled stops.
How much will the renovations and addition cost?
The total cost of the upgrades to the West Branch Library is $7,139,455.
How do I find out more information about the planned upgrades for the West Branch?
For more project information, please visit the Berkeley Public Library’s website at http://berkeleypubliclibrary.org/branchimprovements or call (510) 981-6195.
What are the proposed plans for the West Branch Library?
After significant public input, the Board of Library Trustees voted to replace the existing building of 6,230 sq. ft. with a new, larger 9,300 sq. ft. building that complies with all current codes including being seismically safe and fully ADA-accessible. Proposed plans address the problems of the rotting and decaying substructure, the inefficient energy use, the lack of fire sprinkler systems, and the lack of space for programming, meeting and literacy tutoring.
Who are the project architects?
After a public selection process, the design team of Harley Ellis Devereaux – Greenworks Studio (www.hedev.com) was selected to work on the West Branch Project.
Did the Library consider renovating the existing West Branch building?
The current branch was constructed in 1923 and expanded in 1974. The architects presented alternative schemes, including a design reconstructing what remains of the 2,000 sq. ft. 1923 portion of the building and replacing the 1974 addition with new construction. In order to renovate the older portion, it would have to be lifted and moved to be seismically reconstructed before it could be reintegrated into a functioning library.
A supplemental design study revealed that it would not be possible to both restore the 1923 portion to its original appearance and fit the required library program without providing new space at a much higher cost. For these reasons and others, the Board of Library Trustees voted to replace the building and give the community the most functional, efficient and welcoming branch the budget would allow.
Has the community been involved in the design process for the West Branch Library?
Yes, this project has included extensive discussion with the public about their service needs. During the design process, three neighborhood community meetings to solicit the public’s input have been held, and four presentations have been made to the Board of Library Trustees.
What will be some of the benefits of the upgraded West Branch Library?
Beyond being a larger building with improved facilities, the new West Branch Library will be the first Net Zero Energy Library in the country. The design maximizes space for the community’s needs, including a teen reading room, space for the adult literacy program, a quiet study room, a multiple purpose program room, increased computer access to collections and comfortable seating for adults and children. It will be more spacious, organized, and efficient with the layout and flexibility needed to meet future needs. The new building is intended to be a positive presence along University Avenue, contributing to the revitalization of the West Berkeley neighborhood
Will there be an environmental review process for the upgrades at the West Branch Library?
The Planning Department is currently preparing an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the branch, which will study the project’s potential impact to topics such as air quality, cultural resources and noise pollution.
Are any green elements being contemplated as part of the construction efforts?
The West Berkeley Branch Library design reflects Berkeley’s commitment to a green future by achieving Zero Net Energy. Maximization of natural lighting opportunities and reduced energy consumption means this state-of-the-art facility will be without a carbon footprint. Berkeleyans will enjoy housing the first Net Zero Energy Library in the country.
Is the existing West Branch Library a Landmark?
No, it has not been designated by the City’s Landmark’s Commission but it is considered by the City of Berkeley to be a Structure of Merit.
Will the West Branch Library close during construction?
The West Branch Library will close during the demolition and reconstruction of the building. Libraries will be closed on a rotating basis so that no more than two at a time are closed for upgrades. Patrons will still be able to visit the other branch libraries and the book van at scheduled stops.
How much will the renovations and addition cost?
The total cost of the upgrades to the West Branch Library is $7,139,455.
How do I find out more information about the planned upgrades for the West Branch?
For more project information, please visit the Berkeley Public Library’s website at http://berkeleypubliclibrary.org/branchimprovements or call (510) 981-6195.
