Interior Makeover progress report

Interior Makeover Progress report
What we have achieved so far:
• Completed wiring for new public computer locations
• Doubled the number of public Internet work stations and added a color laser network printer
• Increased broadband capacity to 50 Mbit
• Replaced lighting with brighter, more energy efficient system
• Planned new design of Library interior with Globus Design Associates (renderings available on request)
• Completed design of new circulation desk which will be A.D.A. compliant and improve access to the building
• Project manager hired. WG Project Management hired to ensure completion of carpeting, painting, installation of new shelving and furniture within our budget and in a timely manner
As of 10.29.2010 we are preparing documents to go out to public bid for new carpeting, painting, installation of the circulation desk, new shelving and furniture.

Circulation Desk design almost complete

Following an extremely busy summer we are almost finished the design of our new circulation desk. The new desk will be ADA compliant and will maximize the efficiency of our daily operations. It will also be a lot smaller than our current desk (leaving more floor space for public use).

The whole process has given us the opportunity of studying the way we do our work and investigate possible ways we can improve.

State cuts partially restored

We have had some good news this week. The State Library will be cut by about $6 million for the next budget year. The original budget proposed over $10 million in cuts or 74%. This means that the State Library will continue to fund essential services like shared subscription databases and delivery of inter library loans. Unfortunately, we will have a huge reduction in per capita State aid putting further downward pressure on our operating budget.

I still hope to complete the bulk of our Interior Makeover Project before the end of this year. The staff is currently working with our designer on the new ADA compliant circulation desk. In early July our project manager will meet with Borough officials to discuss the public bidding process. Funding for the project comes from the Borough of River Edge, grants and private donations.

We have contracted with an artist to design an historic tile mural which will be installed in the Library's vestibule. This will be an outstanding work of public art and a significant fundraising vechicle. The first tile will depict George Washington and other Revolutionary War figures at the "Bridge That Saved America". This exciting project will raise awareness of the history and cultural heritage of the community of River Edge and will be a source of pride for generations.