Library Progress Report -- January, 2006
At last. At long, long last, we have started the reconstruction of the “ White Building” and the transformation from a repository of important and cool stuff we just couldn’t let get away, into the Museum Library. I still cannot believe that we actually throw away sorta usable stuff which we had so carefully gathered for over 25 years. We must have thought them valuable at one time.
We are now about to emerge from the stealth demolition stage. All of the old conduit, water and gas lines have been removed, plaster ceilings on all three levels have vanished, several walls removed and parts of the old small stairway are gone. In total, a 120 cubic yards of broken plaster, bricks, wood bits and miscellaneous other detritus are gone. We are within a week or so of actually starting to build rather then tear down, which means it is time to officially pull the building permits.
With the removal of the first floor interior walls, it is pretty easy to get a feel of the large meeting space. We still have to hoist a few steel beams and install the appropriate columns before we can remove all of the temporary jacks to really wallow in openness, but we will be able to seat 40 plus in comfort.
Dollar-wise we are doing fairly well so far. All the demolition and asbestos removal efforts are coming in well within budget and, so far, there are no ugly surprises. Those I expect to come later when the increases in materials costs will have to be squarely faced. In anticipation of our pending collision of the worlds of dreams with realities, we are doing the bare minimum in the basement and redesigning the external stairway from enclosed elegance to covered code compliant. Still, we will not short change the elevator tower design nor the demand for first class workmanship throughout. It will be close, but it will be done. Contributions of building materials will be a critical factor. If you have any suggestions, we are listening.
I will keep you updated on progress periodically. Thanks for making this possible. Your support is responsible for putting a foundation under this dream.
Sincerely,
-Jim Wallace,
Director
