It's been a long time coming, but the borough library's exterior makeover is underway and expected to be completed this fall.
Passersby might have noticed the recent arrival of a miniature excavation machine and a low orange hazard fence in front of the building and assumed these elements to be part of the ongoing water main replacement project beneath Ringwood Avenue, but they are not. Instead, they are the first indication that the 42-year-old library is poised to receive planned renovations that include redesigned steps, a new portico, and fresh roofing before winter.
When asked if the nearby road construction project has affected the day-to-day business of the library, Acting Director Gillian Buonanno told Suburban Trends on Oct. 10 that the "impact has been minimal. People who want to use the library are still coming."
Buonanno said that the exterior renovations were somewhat delayed by heavy rainstorms in the area late this summer. Public Service Electric & Gas Co. was required to mark the locations where the utility lines entered the building before actual construction could begin, but "they were backed up because of all the damage," she said.
Much of North Jersey experienced a fierce storm that came with tornado warnings and high winds on Sept. 18, causing widespread power outages and numerous fallen trees. Buonanno went on to say that PSE&G arrived to do the work "about 10 days" after it was initially expected.
The library has retained Element Architectural Group of Paramus to design and oversee all elements of construction. The library's contractual end date with the firm is Dec. 1.
However, Buonanno believes the project will be wrapped up in time, "as long as the weather cooperates," she added.
According to Buonanno, the exterior renovations will be completed at no additional cost to taxpayers. Money for the project was made available through the library's capital reserves and fund-raising efforts. Interior renovations were completed in early 2010.
Storms that occurred in 2011 necessitated the urgency of the exterior renovations, as noted by the rapid decay of the portico after Hurricane Irene swept through the region. Instead of diverting water away from the building, Buonanno explained, the damaged structure was absorbing it. The old portico was removed last December.
The library will remain open during construction. Children's story times and other activities will go on as scheduled. Patrons are being directed to use the backdoor to the facility, requiring them to maneuver a couple of stairs.
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