The Department of Public Libraries’ Strategic Facilities plan identified the Olney Library for renovation and expansion in 2002. The building opened in 1981 and is 16,825 square feet in size. A Program
of Requirements to guide the renovation plans was written in September
2001 and updated and signed in October 2002. Funding was approved by
the County Council as part of the FY03-08, FY05-10, and FY09-14 Capital
Improvement Program budgets. The renovation was approved to include a
4,260 square foot addition, HVAC replacement, bringing all building systems
up to applicable building and energy codes, replacement of the windows
and doors, pedestrian safety and walkway improvements, and exterior lighting
and stormwater management improvements.
Planning for the renovation began in January 2008. A public
meeting was held on January 24, 2008 to solicit input on the features members of the community
liked about the current library and those they wanted to see changed or included
in the renovated and expanded facility.
Architects from The Lukmire Partnership and staff from the Department of Public
Libraries and the Department of General Services worked during 2008 to complete
an initial draft plan for the exterior and interior design of the renovated
and expanded building. That schematic design plan was presented to the community
at a second public meeting held on April 2, 2009. Architects from The Lukmire
Partnership and staff from the Department of Public Libraries and the Department
of General Services answered
questions and received feedback from community members. Input from the community meeting will be considered as the final design for the building is developed.
The current timetable for the renovation and expansion has a final public meeting scheduled for January/February 2010, when design and development documents are approximately 50% complete. A presentation on the final design recommended for the project will be done at that time. Construction on the project is slated to begin in the fall of 2010 with completion in the spring of 2012.
There is no funding in the Capital Improvement Program or operating budgets for an interim facility for Olney when the branch is closed for renovation. Montgomery County Public Libraries is exploring some options for limited service during this period (i.e., a bookmobile parked on a site in the community). The Friends of the Library, Olney Chapter, and Olney Library Advisory Committee are working with Olney Library staff to plan for continuation of some public programs at various sites in the community during the period the library is closed.
Please check this site for updates. The announcement for the final public meeting date in 2010 will be posted in this location when determined.
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