West End Library temporarily closing for renovations

The Island reports: the The West End Library will close for renovations at 5 p.m. March 13.

The retrofit include smechanical, plumbing, electrical, lighting, carpentry, flooring, painting, and roofing work. Work on one branch must be completed and ready for occupancy before construction begins on the other branch.

The West End Library, located at 788 Santa Clara Avenue (cross street 8th Street), is a Works Progress Administration (W.P.A.) project building that first opened in 1936. Remodeling will retain the historic aspects to the greatest extent possible, according to the City's website.

"Materials being held at the West End Library for patrons will be moved to the main library, which is at 1550 Oak Street, and materials from that library should be returned at the main library or the library’s Bay Farm branch."

The renovations are expected to continue until the end of 2010.

The original 1935 plans are available online and the City is accepted bids for the improvement work.

Photo: Flickr user Alameda Free