Madrona-Sally Goldmark Library Renovation Project

Patrons of the Madrona-Sally Goldmark branch library will be able to see how the new interior may look following renovation during an open house on Wednesday, Sept. 20.
Designers from Heliotrope Architects and Justine Kim, library project manager, will explain the design during the open house from 4 to 7 p.m. at the branch, 1134 33rd Ave. Library patrons can stop by any time during the open house to view the design, ask questions and fill out comments.
The $392,213 project will include new seating; upgraded technology services and equipment; better electrical, communication and computer connections; a more efficient interior layout; improved ventilation; a modern mechanical system; and an updated book collection. The branch will concentrate on materials for children, popular fiction and DVDs. The renovations are expected to be complete in 2007.
The 1,707-square-foot branch of the Seattle Public Library opened in a converted firehouse in 1973 and is heavily used by residents and schoolchildren. The building was upgraded in 1986 at a cost of $84,854, but problems remain with its layout, program and work areas and electrical and ventilation systems.
The renovation is part of the $196.4 million "Libraries for All" bond measure, approved by voters in 1998. The bond money, which can be used only for construction of libraries, paid for the new Central Library and is paying for new and improved branches.
To date, the library has completed the new Central Library and the Ballard, Beacon Hill, Capitol Hill, Columbia, Delridge, Fremont, Green Lake, Greenwood, High Point, International District/Chinatown, Lake City, Mountlake, NewHolly, North East, Northgate, Rainier Beach, South Park, Wallingford and West Seattle branches. Many other branches are in the planning, design or construction phase.
The Seattle Public Library Foundation continues to raise funds from private sources to enhance the public bond commitment and keep pace with the demands of patrons for a high level of library service. Every dollar raised will ensure a level of excellence in the library's facilities, collections and programs that would not be possible through its tax-based support alone, according to the foundation.
For more information, call Kim, 206-615-1329, or visit www.spl.org.