Library groundbreaking nears

SANDPOINT — The official groundbreaking ceremony for the East Bonner County Library's 7,900-square-foot expansion is scheduled for 4 p.m. Monday, and all are invited to attend the big event. 

In addition to the groundbreaking ceremony, neighborhood focus group will be held at 5:30 p.m. July 12 in Room 104 of the Rude Girls Room. Anyone who lives in the area of the library are invited to discuss the impact of the project on neighboring residences with the general contractor.

"Northcon Inc., is grateful to have this opportunity to help expand the library community here in Sandpoint," said Brandon Spry, Northcon Inc. regional manager. "... As you know, the winter months can sometimes linger on in the Inland Northwest, so the exterior landscaping will have to be completed as weather permits, but most likely in the early spring of 2018."

Substantial completion of the interior space is scheduled for the end of March 2018.

Staging is set up on the northeast corner of the library parking lot, resulting in the loss of 14 parking spaces. North Summit Church has agreed to offer the use of their parking lot as overflow, library officials said. The entry portico is now blocked off at the east side, and will remain accessible to non-motorized traffic only throughout the duration of the project.

Work will take place 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. On occasion, work may extend to later in the day and on Saturdays. Noise typical of construction zones, potentially hazardous conditions, and closed access to areas of the library should be expected. Patrons will be prohibited from entering any potentially dangerous areas. Parents are cautioned to ensure that children stay clear of blocked-off areas for safety.

"We are so excited to be working with Northcon Inc. on Your Library Transformation," said Marcy Timblin, public relations specialist for the library. "While we will all be doing our best to mitigate inconveniences to patrons, we know that noise, dust, and other disruptions are expected. It is important to us that we have open, timely communication with patrons so that they know what to expect when visiting the library during the project."

The $2.7 million "Your Library Transformation" project includes the exterior expansion, as well as an interior remodel resulting in larger, more accessible community meeting rooms, an expanded Children’s Area, increased young adult and large print book collections, designated quiet and social areas, a teen room and maker space, among other additions.

The decision to remodel and expand the library is based on public comment, usage data, and community focus groups and surveys performed over the past three years.

"Being a mom of two youngsters, the expansion is a really big deal to me," said Pearl Faux, library patron. "The library has enriched our lives. It’s helped me to raise well-rounded kids."

Information: eBonnerLibrary.org.