Story Published: Feb 7, 2012 at 2:35 PM PDT
Story Updated: Feb 7, 2012 at 2:35 PM PDT
Construction site for new Lewiston City Library.
It's been 30 years since the Lewiston Library has received any type of remodel. This year marks not only a facelift for the facility but a new location all together.
"I envision an enormous building that is going to be filled with light and children having a good time," said Circulation Supervisor Robanna Borsten. "People sitting with their feet up on a cushion reading a magazine, checking out the newspaper."
The building was originally constructed in three different phases. In the 1890's the main floor plan housed Erb's Ace Hardware store. The central part of the building was added in the 1920's, and by the 1960's the northern side of the building was remodeled and eventually became the home of Cornerstone Interiors, a furniture company.
"We want to take advantage of the character of the existing facility as much as possible," said project architect Larry Kom.
"To be part of that history again, I think it is going to add so much atmosphere to the library rather than a new building," said Borsten.
Demolition has taken about a month and is expected to last two more weeks. A wall was stripped down by architects to help restore the significant history of the building.
"We want to incorporate some of the heavy beams and heavy columns that really have a lot of good character and have a real sense of the construction techniques in the 1920's that we want to re-utilize," said Kom.
Once the demolition phase of reconstruction is complete, crews will begin working on the handicap accessible elevator and restrooms.
"It will be a good thing for the entire community because this larger facility will serve a larger portion of the community," said Library Director Dawn Whittman.
"I really have been looking forward to this for years hoping that Lewiston would get a new library," said Borsten. "As we try to squeeze one more audio book on a shelf where they won't fit at our current location, I get really excited."
The remodel will provide a more substantial amount of room for group meetings, classes and programs.
