$1.5 million in renovations launching at library

A major renovation project is unfolding for the Mount Airy Public Library, funded by a $1.5 million allocation from the state Legislature last year.

Construction bids for the effort are now being solicited by city officials.

This will be the first such project undertaken for the 13,750-square-foot building since it opened more than 40 years ago, in May of 1982.

At that time, the library was hailed far and wide for its distinction as a passive solar facility, but now is in need of various interior improvements, officials said.

This will include roof and ceiling work, replacement of windows, removing walls, electrical work, removing the concrete base from existing shelving units, removing doors, installing new storefront units and more, according to bid documents for the project.

To stay open

City Manager Darren Lewis said that despite the extensive work planned, the goal is for the library to maintain normal operations throughout the process.

“It is the goal to keep the library open during construction,” Lewis advised Wednesday afternoon.

“Safety will be priority,” he added, “but we hope to be able to work in small areas to limit any type of closure.”

Sept. 25 is the deadline for contractors to submit sealed bids for the project. This will be followed by an evaluation procedure to vet the proposals ahead of the eventual contract awarding by the Mount Airy Board of Commissioners.

Lewis said Thursday afternoon that this action could occur in October, which could mean construction starting 30 to 60 days after that.

A pre-bid meeting for all interested construction firms and vendors is scheduled for Sept. 4 at 9 a.m. in the multi-purpose room at the library.

Although the Mount Airy Public Library is part of the Northwest Regional Library system, which oversees its operation, the building itself is owned by the city government.

The municipality is therefore responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the building and grounds.