Fourteen months after it was closed and torn down, the new South Branch of the Berkeley Public Library will reopen on Saturday May 11. At 12:30 p.m. local officials and library supporters will gather for a ribbon cutting ceremony at 1901 Russell Street, right at the intersection of MLK. After that, the library will be open for normal business until 5:00 p.m. When patrons walk inside the new 8,700 square foot, $6.5 million building, they will see something completely different from the award-winning, but clumsily remodeled, old South Branch building. The ceilings are higher, there are more windows, there are dedicated spaces for computers and other multimedia equipment, as well as more lounge chairs. Copper artwork by artist Gina Dominguez is displayed throughout the building. Solar panels will reduce heating costs. “The New South Branch/Tool Lending Library is a warm and welcoming building with improved lighting, ventilation, and thermal comfort,” the library said in a press release. “It creates a civic presence for pedestrians and passers-by; inside it offers visitors a spacious and organized layout.” Field Paoli Architects of San Francisco designed the new South Branch. Gonsalves & Stronck Construction Company of San Carlos were the contractors. Construction cost for […]
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