Residents who have been anticipating checking out a book from the newly renovated Mill Creek Library needn’t wait any longer. The library reopens Monday, Sept. 15.
The library closed for remodeling on Aug. 17, to allow crews to make improvements that would allow the building to better comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
According to Doug Jacobson, public works director for the city of Mill Creek, the renovation had been planned for several years.
Improvements to both the men’s and women’s restrooms included installing new fixtures, replacing tile on the walls, adding diaper changing tables and widening the restroom doorways.
The most noticeable improvement, however, is one that can be seen as soon as patrons approach the building – the front entryway. An alcove was added onto what was formerly the front entrance, and a second set of doors were installed.
In addition to being handicap accessible, the double doorways prevent cold air from entering the main building during colder months.
“Patrons are looking forward to the changes because we would have situations quite frequently where a restroom would have to be closed or the old doors were inconvenient for those who needed mobility assistance,” Jacobson said.
The cost of the renovation to the city of Mill Creek was projected at $92,020, and Jacobson said the improvements were completed within the bid. The project was originally under-budgeted by $27,000, but was adjusted once the lowest bid exceeded that initial amount. The low bid was awarded on June 24 to Corstone Contractors of Snohomish.
To celebrate the recent renovation, a reopening ceremony will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 at the library, 15429 Bothell-Everett Hwy. According to Jean Lightburne, a member of Friends of the Library, which raises money to provide funds for library programs, the ceremony will be relatively informal.
It will give the public a chance to meet the interim librarian, Eric Spencer, Lightburne said. It will be an open house with refreshments.
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