It's all about the steel...

Well, if you've driven past the construction site, perhaps you've noticed that things are really beginning to look up! The concrete slabs for the new addition have all been poured, and they are beginning to erect the steel beams for the new portion of the library. This is a really exciting time for those of us with spatial problems. I knew the library was going to grow in size, but until I saw those beams go up, I couldn't get a feel for just how big the building will be. Now I can really see that we will have lots of space to grow into for the next 30 or so years!

We are also working on several bids for the building. The furniture ( both staff offices and the public tables, chairs, etc...) will be ready to bid soon, as well as the shelving needed. We are also getting the proposal for the coffee bar ready to go out - staff is looking forward to that portion of the building very much.

There is so much that goes into the building of a public library, I am constantly amazed that everyone involved manages to keep their sense of humor and their sanity. We need to make sure we build this library strong enough to carry the weight of all those bookshelves on the second floor. We want to make sure the lighting will be done properly so patrons can read the spine labels. We want to find a balance between really comfortable furniture and furniture that is easily cleaned. (Trust me on this one) We want to build a building that Richland can point to with pride and say "That's OUR Library". We are working so hard to make sure that you get all of this and hopefully more. We have a rockin' construction crew, a dedicated building committee, and staff that is ready and eager to do whatever it takes to bring this project in on time and on budget.

However, while all this is going on, let me just remind everyone that we are still open, and committed to providing the very best service we can, and to bring all our wonderful programs to our customers.

The Summer Reading Program is going great guns, and kids everywhere can be found playing with their glow-in-the-dark slime and wearing some really cool shades. The teens are having loads of fun with the weekly Runescape parties we host on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and look for information on the Community Lecture Series coming in the fall.

If you happen to walk past the construction site, please give a friendly wave to the guys and gals working there. We really appreciate all that they do for us.