On Wednesday, the Metro Council approved the $14.6 million low bid for construction of the new Downtown Library at Town Square. A total of $19 million for the project was allocated and approved by the Metropolitan Council in 2010 and the bid by general contractor, Buquet & LeBlanc, came under the projected building cost of $15.1 million. Demolition of the existing building and construction of the new will begin later this summer. During the estimated construction time of 30 months, the Kress Building, at 447 Third Street, will serve as a temporary location for the library's current amenities and services; offering cataloged items and free computer and wi-fi access.
The Downtown Library will be the centerpiece of North Boulevard Town Square & the Central Green - a place where our City's civic and cultural attractions come together. Designed by WHLC Architecture & Schwartz/Silver, a joint venture, the approximately 50,000 square foot new library will encompass four floors of dynamic spaces for students, families, and business professionals.
New Library amenities below!
Technology Large Markerspace outfitted with high tech equipment, Media Studios, Computer Commons & Laptop Bars
Meeting Spaces Large meeting room open to the Rooftop Terrace, 3 conference rooms with video conferencing, Public Rooftop Terrace with sweeping views of Town Square, Old State Capitol, Shaw Center, & Mississippi River.
Activity Spaces Children's Tech Area, Story Time Room, Teen Activity Room with Workshops, Classes, Video Gaming, Adult Business Pods, & Grants Research Center
Check out the recently released images and the Library calendar below.
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