Bond Program Improvements at Denver Public Libraries

We are pleased to report work is underway to complete the repair/maintenance work at branch libraries as funded by the Better Denver bond program.

Visit the Branch Library Closure page for complete information on service changes to DPL branches during the Bond Program Improvement process.

Central Library Renovations Underway
Please visit the Central Library bond page for more information on changes to service.

Proposed Green Valley Ranch Branch Library
Find out about the proposed Green Valley Ranch Branch Library funded by the Better Denver bond program. The new branch is envisioned to be a library of the twenty-first century, incorporating the latest in library technology. It will be constructed using environmentally friendly materials and building systems.

Decker Branch Library
Park Hill Branch Library
The Hampden Branch Library

Ross-Cherry Creek Branch Library

Specifically, this branch will realize the following improvements:

• Replacement and upgrades to several building and life safety systems that have been deferred over the years. This includes the replacement of the fire detection and alarm system with state-of-the-art technology, replacement of the 44-year-old boiler with a high energy efficient, Energy Star rated boiler, and much needed modernization of other related plumbing and electrical systems.
• The installation of several automated library material self-check stations and the introduction of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to library materials will revolutionize how our customers will be able to access and acquire library books and media and conduct other Library-related business.
• Architectural features and interior finishes will get much-needed repairs and refreshing. Including but not limited to: Lighting upgrades, new carpeting and flooring, new furniture and a paint job.
• This represents approximately $1,000,000 worth of repairs and upgrades.
• More information about this project (PDF).

Woodbury Branch Library

Specifically, in 2009, Woodbury Branch Library, one of five Carnegie inspired libraries in Denver, will begin to realize the following improvements:

• Replacement and upgrades to the building electrical and life safety systems that have been deferred over the years. This includes the replacement of the fire detection and alarm system with state-of-the-art technology and the modernization of existing plumbing and electrical features.
• The installation of automated library material self–check stations and the introduction of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to Library materials will revolutionize how our customers will be able to access and acquire Library books and media and conduct other Library-related business.
• Architectural features and interior finishes will get much-needed repairs and refreshing. The unique features and historical ambience of Woodbury will receive repairs and refreshing including but not limited to: New carpeting and flooring, new furnishings and fresh paint.
• This represents approximately $375,000 worth of repairs and upgrades.
• More information about this project (PDF).

Central Library

Please note, the Central Library will remain open during this 9-month renovation project. Visit the Central Library bond page for information on changes to service.

Specifically, the Central Library will realize the following improvements:

• Repairs, replacement and upgrades to building components and several building and life safety systems that have been deferred over the years. This includes upgrades to the existing fire detection and alarm system, security and public address systems with state-of-the-art technology. Many areas of the exterior hardscape and facade will realize repairs to assure a safe and aesthetic approach to our building. Many areas of the roof will have repairs completed. Design will continue on our ‘green roof’ initiative as a possibility for other areas of the roof. The work on the life safety and security systems will occur in 2008. Other aspects of the repair work will be ongoing with many being completed before 2010.
• The installation of several automated library material self–check stations and the introduction of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to library materials will revolutionize how our customers will be able to access and acquire library books and media, and conduct other Library-related business. The existing automated material handling system will have upgrades and enhancements that will raise library efficiencies, thus, allowing library staff more time for one-on-one customer service. The application of RFID to library material will commence in 2008 and continue until the entire collection has been accounted for.
• Architectural features and interior finishes at the Central Library are unique, having no equal within the City of Denver and are a source of civic pride. The interiors will get much-needed repairs and refreshing that will include but are not limited to: Lighting upgrades, painting, and woodwork refinishing. New furnishings and shelving will be added that will make library materials and service more readily accessible. Initial design work is already in progress. Many of the repair needs will see attention in 2008 and be ongoing through 2012.
• More information about this project (PDF).

Branches Scheduled for for Renovation

Smiley Branch Library

Specifically, this branch will realize the following improvements:

• Replacement and upgrades to several building and life safety systems that have been deferred over the years. This includes the replacement of the fire detection and alarm system with state-of-the-art technology, replacement of the 30-year-old boiler with a high energy efficient, Energy Star rated boiler, and modernization of other related plumbing and electrical systems.
• The installation of automated library material self–check stations and the introduction of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to library materials will revolutionize how our customers will be able to access and acquire library books and media and conduct other Library-related business.
• Architectural features, interior finishes and park setting make the Smiley Branch Library unique in the City of Denver. These unique features and historical ambience will receive much-needed repairs and refreshing, including but not limited to: Lighting upgrades, new carpeting and flooring, new furniture and paint.
• This represents approximately $250,000 worth of repairs and upgrades.
• More information about this project (PDF).

Eugene Field Branch Library

Specifically, this branch will realize the following improvements:

• Replacement and upgrades to several building and life safety systems that have been deferred over the years. This includes the replacement of the fire detection and alarm system with state-of-the-art technology, and the replacement of the 30-year-old, roof-mounted heating, ventilating and air conditioning unit with an innovative, high energy efficient model.
• The installation of several automated library material self-check stations and the introduction of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to library materials will revolutionize how our customers will be able to access and acquire library books and media and conduct other Library-related business.
• This represents approximately $250,000 worth of repairs and upgrades.
• More information about this project (PDF).

	These improvements are part of the infrastructure package approved by voters in November 2007, (Ballot Issues B thru I) which also includes funding for parks, streets, public safety, cultural institutions and other important infrastructure needs. In all, over 200 projects are part of the $550 million bond package, and all projects will be completed within five years (end of 2012). See the complete list of other scheduled City bond projects. For more details, visit denvergov.org/bondprojects or call Michael Murphy at 720-865-1151 for additional library improvement questions.