Library Renovation Updates

The Albany Public Library continues to move forward with a $29.1 million Branch Improvement Plan - the first comprehensive infrastructure project in its history. The plan calls for renovations of three existing branches - Pine Hills, Delaware, and John A. Howe - along with construction of two new branches - John J. Bach on New Scotland Ave and Arbor Hill/West Hill on Henry Johnson Blvd. Albany voters showed support for the plan in 2007 when they overwhelmingly approved a referendum to fund the relocation, renovation, and construction of five branch libraries in the city.

Designs for these state of the art, fully accessible branch libraries include community meeting spaces; expanded collection spaces for adults, teens, and children; public computing areas of adults, teens, and children; and small group tutoring/study rooms. All of these features were suggested by the community through an extensive input process that formed the foundation of the plan.

The three renovation projects were designed by the Albany-based architectural firm of CS Arch and are being built by Latham-based Bunkoff General Contractors. The two new building projects were designed by Hom and Goldman architects of NYC and are being built by Albany-based Sano-Rubin Construction, Inc. The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York is serving as project manager at all five projects in the Branch Improvement Plan.

Albany Public Library is committed to building "green" branch libraries that are energy efficient, environmentally responsible, and healthy for customers and staff. Green building is the best, most responsible use of taxpayers' money because energy efficient libraries are more cost effective to operate and healthier for the environment. All five projects are using green design and construction principles to be environmentally friendly and energy efficient. All five buildings will be evaluated by the U.S. Green Building Council in pursuit of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design(LEED) designations. The three renovated buildings are expected to achieve LEED certified status, while the two new buildings are planned to achieve LEED silver status.

Pine Hills Library
517 Western Ave
Renovation began in Fall 2008
Opening targeted for late 2009
Two-story, 19,000 sq ft buliding

Delaware Library
331 Delaware Ave
Renovation began in Fall 2008
Opening targeted for late 2009
Single-story, 11,000 sq ft building

John A. Howe Library
Schuyler and Broad Streets
Renovation began in Fall 2008
Opening is expected in early 2010
71-year-old building being completely rehabilitated, including restoration of historic windows

Arbor Hill/West Hill Library
Henry Johnson Blvd between First and Second Streets
Construction began in Spring 2009
Opening expected in Summer 2010
Single-story, 12,000 sq ft building

John J. Bach Library
New Scotland Ave next to Engine 11 Fire Station
Construction began in Spring 2009
Opening expected in Summer 2010
Single-story, 8,500 sq ft building