Library Construction Update
by Ed Vincent

On a recent tour of Oak Park's Main library the sun was shining,
the sky was clear, and everything was on schedule.  When the
winter came to Oak Park the building had been sealed with
plastic to allow the propane heaters to keep the job site warm.
The workers appreciate the warmth and much of the stone and
cement work needs the warmer temperatures in order to take
place. Some of the mortar needs to set at 40 degrees Fahrenheit,
and when we had below temperatures for most of the winter
season the plastic helped keep the work on the set time track.
 

On the ground floor looking up to roof skylight
Oak Park Journal photo
February 27, 2003

On the ground floor looking North
Oak Park Journal photo
February 27, 2003

On the ground floor looking up at the
conveyor system which will assist in
returning books to the shelves.
Oak Park Journal photo
February 27, 2003

Much of the stone work facing Lake Street has now been
completed, while the new terrazzo floor is being installed on the
second floor.  The view from the new library of Scoville Park is
already magnificent-just wait until Spring. 

The library will not be open for use until the Fall of the year.
The library in Forest Park, which is the temporary home of Oak
Park's main library shall be shut down beginning on Labor Day of
2003, during this time the books and supplies will be moved to
the new location.

Debby Preiser and Janet Kelenson,Vice President of the Library
Board enjoy the clear skies and progress of the new Library.
Oak Park Journal photo
February 27, 2003

The link below will show you the latest information on the
progress, and we shall from time to time post more photos
of work being done.

http://www.oppl.org/construction/index.htm
 

This will all be enclosed in glass and has a
wonderful view of the park.  There are no
offices using this space.  This area is for
the public.
Oak Park Journal photo
February 27, 2003

It is posted that on June 27th of this year, there is to be substantial
completion of work on the project.
 

Oak Park Journal photo
February 27, 2003