The Smithtown Library Building Blog

Progress at the Kings Park Branch!

2012-01-11T15:49:00.007-05:00

The construction of the elevator shaft is almost complete.

The future main entrance to the building nears completion.

The brickwork to the new building extension is complete and will become the home to the Children's Department.

The interior view of the main floor to the building extension and Children's Department.

Things are taking shape at Smithtown!

2012-01-11T15:39:00.007-05:00

Work continues on the new building entrance.

Future Children's Department on the main floor receives heating and air conditioning duct work.

Future Community Meeting Room in the lower level also receives heating and air conditioning duct work.

Installation of the new Air Conditioning Unit in the lower level utility room.

Work Continues at Smithtown

2011-11-22T11:30:00.005-05:00

Steel beams have been installed for the new entrance into the Library.

The new main entrance to the Library, formerly the employee entrance on the northeast side of the building.

Some of the front facade has been installed on the new Children's Department.

Here is another view of the new Children's Department.

Raising the Roof at Kings Park!

2011-11-22T11:19:00.005-05:00

In these photos, you can see that the workers are busy installing the steel beams in order to add the roof to the new Children's Department.

Once this roof is in place, interior work will continue.

A view of the new main entrance to the Library.

Kings Park Brick Facade Nears Completion

2011-11-15T14:44:00.004-05:00

Workers applying bricks to the front facade of the new addition.

Close-up reveals the seamless blending of the new and old brickwork.

Interior Work at Smithtown Continues!

2011-11-15T14:33:00.007-05:00

Ceiling ductwork nears completion in the new Children's Room.

Additional ductwork found in the new Children's Room.

A view of main Reference Area taken from second floor balcony.

Work being completed in the old Childen's Room. This new area will become a Periodicals Reading Room.

Kings Park moves ahead!

2011-11-02T11:42:00.005-04:00

Workers install scaffolding to construct new walls in the future Children's Department.
A view of the new Children's Department taken from Church Street. The old main entrance is visible in the background.

A worker installs the new walls in the Children's Department.

This will be the new main entrance upon completion of the building.

Work Continues in Smithtown

2011-11-02T10:58:00.006-04:00

New windows and doors have been installed in the Smithtown building.

This is a view of the old Children's Department. This wall was part of the original Library building.

Windows have been installed in the new Children's Department. Metal studs have been placed on all of the walls.

A view of one of the meeting rooms and the quiet study area taken from the new meeting room!

Another view of the new meeting room!

Work Continues at the Smithtown Building!

2011-09-12T15:42:00.019-04:00

Demolition work has begun at the Smithtown Building! These photos were taken over a two week period during the month of August.

This is a view of the Children's Room. The walls have been stripped of the shelving and the room will be rewired. This will become a Reading Room when the building reopens.

Another view of the old Children's Room.

The walls and door at the original Main Entrance to the Library. This will evenually lead to the new Children's Room.

The Circulation Desk was originally located between the two columns on the Main Level. The fiction collection was behind it. The non-fiction collection was located above it.

The main floor; the elevator is located to the right, a small reference office has been demolished and the employee entrance can be seen slightly to the left side of the photo.

The old stairs have been removed.

The second floor has been gutted. This area housed the 900s and Young Adult area.

Metal studs have been placed on the second floor.

Offices have been removed from the Main Level. The glass walls have been removed from the second floor. These areas will now be used for public space.

The Lower Level/Periodicals area awaits demolition.

The wood panelling has been removed from the walls of the old meeting room.

This is a view from the fiction area looking into the audio-visual area. This will become the new Teen Department when the building reopens!

Renovation work has begun at the Kings Park Branch!

2011-09-12T11:16:00.008-04:00

Renovations have begun at the Kings Park Branch. This is a view of the old main entrance to the Library. The door will be closed off and this will become part of the Circulation Desk.

A view of the Main Reference Area and old Children's
Room taken from the Mezzanine Area.

The new Community Room will be located in the basement level of the Library.

Another view of the new Community Room.

The foundation has been poured for the new storage area. The new Children's Room will be located above the storage area.

Another view of the much needed storage area.

Grand Re-opening of the Nesconset Branch!

2011-09-09T14:33:00.004-04:00

On Wednesday, August 3, 2011 Suffolk County Legislator John M. Kennedy Jr. delivered the keynote address at the Grand Opening ceremony of the new Nesconset Branch as Board of Trustee members look on. Shown above are Smithtown Library Trustees Carolyn Ciarelli, John Martins, Judy Marlow-Ratway, Joseph Vallone - President, Charles Sauer, Legislator Kennedy, Anthony Monteleone - Vice-President and Robert Lusak, Library Director.

A large crowd was on hand to hear the keynote address.

Patrons enjoyed their new library!

Smithtown Building Closed: Renovation Work Underway!

2011-07-20T11:51:00.010-04:00

The Smithtown Building is officially closed!

The former Circulation and Reference Departments have been packed up and contents are ready to be placed in storage during the renovation work.

A view of the second floor. This section held the 900s and the Young Adult area.

This was the fiction area. Note the elevator on the right hand side of the photo and the doorway to the staircase towards the center. Shelving has been dismantled and will be stored for future use once the building reopens.

The Children's Room has been emptied and the shelving will be taken down for temporary storage.

The Periodicals Department in the lower level is being prepared for the move.

A new roof is being installed.

Work Continues at the Kings Park Branch!

2011-07-20T11:23:00.010-04:00

The foundation has been poured for the building expansion.

A view of the old front door taken from Church Street.

New metal studs are applied to the walls of the former Children's Department on which sheetrock will be attached.

The view taken from the old Children's Department looking across the entire building.

A reverse view of the previous photo of the Main Floor. Contractors have moved in and work continues at a steady pace.

Nesconset Branch Re-opens Today!

2011-06-30T15:21:00.008-04:00

Thank you for your patience and cooperation during the renovation of the Nesconset Branch of the Smithtown Library. We are happy to serve you and we hope that you visit us often and enjoy the following new features and services:

Join us in our new sun-filled Children's Deparment. There is ample room for children to play, new additions to our book and media collections, 6 new computers, work tables and comfortable seating for parents and grandparents!

Here are some of the first patrons who came to the new Nesconset Branch today!

Welcome to our new main room equipped with 10 new computers, powered work tables and copiers for your convenience.

Got a question? Come to our new Reference Desk! We are here to help you find everything that you need to complete that homework assignment, look for a job or find your next favorite book to read!

We have a new place for teens to do homework, meet with friends and classmates and catch up on the latest books, music and DVDs. Join us for some new and exciting programs ----just for teens!

We have created a relaxing and comfortable area for reading new fiction, nonfiction, paperbacks, newspapers and magazines.

Kings Park Branch Underway!

2011-06-13T14:20:00.009-04:00

The signs tell it all! Construction and renovation work is finally underway at the Kings Park Branch.

Those residents who normally use the Kings Park Branch now have the option to travel 2.8 miles south on Indian Head Road to our newly renovated Commack Branch.

Almost all of the demolition has been completed. New interior walls will be installed very soon.

Here is another view of the main reference area, including the upper mezzanine and lower level.

Grand Re-opening at Commack May 13, 2011

2011-05-18T15:03:00.010-04:00

The Commack Branch officially opens to the public!

Key Note Speaker Suffolk County Legislator Lynne Nowick addresses the crowd.

Library Director Robert Lusak welcomes the public back to the Commack Branch.

Library Board President Joseph Vallone delivers the opening remarks to those who attended the Grand Re-opening of the Commack Branch.

Library Board Members accept a proclamation from Congressman Steve Israel's Legislative Aide.

Commack Community Association President Bruce Ettenberg offers a history of the creation of the independent Smithtown Special Library District.

Suffolk County Legislator Lynne Nowick had the honor of cutting the ribbon.

Kings Park Groundbreaking Ceremony May 13, 2011

2011-05-18T14:27:00.010-04:00

It's official! Kings Park is closed after the Groundbreaking Ceremony on May 13, 2011.

We're on our way! Work begins on the Kings Park Branch.

Director Robert Lusak addresses the crowd at the Ceremony, as Board Members look on.

Kevin Verbesey, Director of the Suffolk Cooperative Library System speaks on the importance and value of community libraries.

Michael Rosato, from the Kings Park Civic Association, thanked the Library Board of Trustees and the project architect for their cooperation with the Kings Park community in planning an outstanding building.

Pictured are members of the Library Board of Trustees and the Library Director as they break ground for the expansion and renovation project. (L-R): Library Director Robert Lusak along with Trustees Carolyn Ciarelli, Judy Marlow-Ratway, Vice-President Anthony Monteleone, President Joseph Vallone, John Martins and Charles Sauer. Unable to attend was Trustee Eric Johansson.

Also attending were (L-R): Receiver of Taxes Deanna Varricchio, Town Clerk Vincent Puleo, Town Supervisor Patrick Vecchio, County Legislator Lynne Nowick, Kings Park Chamber of Commerce President Charles Gardner and Kings Park Civic Association 2nd Vice President Michael Rosato.

Kings Park Branch is Now Closed!

2011-04-15T14:43:00.007-04:00

Workers removing books from the shelves on the Main Floor of the Kings Park Branch.

The removal of all of the books on the lower level has been completed.

Workers are loading the truck with boxed books to be taken to long term storage for the duration of the expansion and renovation project.

Commack is Open!

2011-04-14T15:44:00.008-04:00

The Commack Branch is now open to the public!

The first patron arrives early.

Patrons, Library Trustee Judy Marlow-Ratway, Library Director Robert Lusak, Branch Manager Sandy Atlas and some of the members of the Friends of the Smithtown Library gather outside the entrance to celebrate the opening.

Staff members awaiting the arrival of patrons.

Early arrivals begin to check out their items at the new Circulation Desk.

Families enjoy time with their children in the new Children's Department.

Smithtown work off to a good start!

2011-04-04T14:18:00.010-04:00

The installation of the exterior insulation and vapor barrier has been completed at the Main Building.

Metal wall studs have been placed adjacent to the old main entrance as well as throughout the extension. Another interior view that shows most of the new Children's Department.

New restroom walls have been constructed in the extension.

More interior walls are in place!

Commack Opening Countdown Under Way!

2011-04-01T16:09:00.010-04:00

The new entrance to the Commack Branch is ready for our long anticipated opening.

A view of the Circulation Desk taken from the Upper Level.

Library staff hard at work putting the books back in the stacks.

New library furniture works double duty. One side holds library materials while the other side will have public computers.

Public computers will be placed here displaying an excellent use of space! Public OPACs are available thoughout the library. This one is in the Children's Department.

New murals are being painted on the upper perimeters of the Children's Department. They are a generous gift from the Friends of the Smithtown Library.

A view of the lovely energy-efficient windows in the Children's Department.

Nesconset Branch Nearing Completion!

2011-04-01T15:50:00.009-04:00

The Nesconset Branch is nearing completion! This is a view of the main entrance to the building.

What were once 5 ugly garage doors are now a beautiful bank of windows and doors leading to the Childrens Department and public Meeting Room.

The future location of the Circulation Desk at Nesconset.

View of the Nesconset Branch as seen from Smithtown Boulevard.

Commack Shelving and Furniture Arrives!

2011-03-15T15:02:00.004-04:00

Benches have been installed on either side of the flag pole adjacent to the new entrance of the Commack Branch.

Chairs and furniture of all types have arrived in the main reference area and are being assembled for placement.

Framework for the shelving is being installed in the stack area.

The individual shelves are being placed on the framework with books and other materials soon to follow!

Smithtown Exterior Work Progresses!

2011-03-15T14:54:00.003-04:00

Workers installing insulated panels for the new addition.

Tyvek, a vapor barrier, is being used to cover the outside walls. The exterior brick wall will be installed in the coming days.

Commack Branch Nears Completion!

2011-03-04T10:48:00.010-05:00

The security fencing has been removed and the final asphalt driveway has been completed as well as the new energy efficient exterior lighting.

New protective railings have been installed adjacent to the exterior stairways.

Almost home! Storage trailers are on site with library materials which are ready to be returned to the Commack Branch.

Decorative ceiling tiles in the Children's Department create a festive atmosphere!

One of the completed stairways inside the Commack Branch. This view, taken from the Main Level, shows the stairway leading to the new Meeting Room on the Lower Level and the new stack area on the Upper Mezzanine.

Smithtown Floor and Exterior Wall Studs are Installed

2011-03-04T10:30:00.009-05:00

Workers begin pouring the concrete on the first floor of the Smithtown Building. This area will be the future Children's Department.

Workers putting the finishing touches on the concrete floor.

The first exterior wall studs are installed.

Progress shows the wall studs with the cut-outs for the new energy efficient windows.

Exterior wall studs are all in place including the upper facade.

Construction Work at the Nesconset Branch Nears Completion!

2011-02-22T14:49:00.007-05:00

The new sliding doors to the main entrance have been installed.

Workers install the interior sliding doors as part of the new entrance.

HVAC ductwork nears completion.

View of the entrance to the new Community Room (left) and Reading Room (right) taken from the Main Reference Area.

Smithtown Steel Work Nears Completion!

2011-02-10T09:28:00.004-05:00

Steelworker performs finishing touches to the frame work.

Metal decking is in place for the future Children's Department.

When the spot welding is completed, the metal corregated steel will be ready for concrete to be poured.

Commack Nears Completion!

2011-02-09T15:02:00.014-05:00

The main entrance to the Commack Building nears completion as the doors and lighting have been installed.

Highlighted is the new main reference area featuring energy efficient lighting, skylights and windows.

A new Castle mural in the Children's Room has been applied to the wall.

An energy efficient heating system is up and running!

Shown is the new Community Room that will be made available for public meetings and programs.

Nesconset's Interior Nears Completion!

2011-02-09T14:33:00.008-05:00

Decorative canopies have been installed from the ceiling in the main reference area in the Nesconset building.

More public space has been created in the building with the installation of a new quiet study room.

The Children's Room is beginning to take shape. Here you can see the new energy efficient lighting and decorative ceiling that has been installed.

A woodland mural has been added at the entrance of the Children's Room.

New lighting has been installed along the driveway from Smithtown Boulevard into the new public parking area.

Smithtown Steel Goes Up!

2010-12-30T13:46:00.011-05:00

Workers install heavy steel beams as part of our new expansion and renovation project.

Close-up view of two steel beams being attached to an upright steel column.

The steel work is more than half completed. The next step will be to pour the concrete for the first floor, followed by the completion of the framing of the roof.

Nesconset Making Great Strides

2010-12-21T09:36:00.012-05:00

The new Circulation and Reference Department areas are taking shape!

Work on the future Periodical Reading Room and Quiet Study Area is well under way.

The new main entrance to the building is under construction.

The ceiling tiles are being installed in the Main Circulation/Reference Area and the walls will be painted very soon!

The parking lots have been paved and striped. This is a view of the future front of the Nesconset Building.

The exterior portion of the Children's Department and Community Room has been completed. The outdoor patio can be used for all types of programming.

Commack Moving Ahead!

2010-12-20T16:11:00.010-05:00

The future home of the Reference Department.

The new Children's Department features natural sunlight as part of the Library's mission to go "green."

The new Community Room which was the old Children's Department.

The new Circulation Department takes shape.

One of two skylights located in the shared space that makes up the Circulation and Reference Departments. This is another example of our effort to go "green."

The cornerstone has been inserted near the new entrance that features a raised planting bed.

Smithtown Foundation Floor Finished

2010-12-09T11:40:00.008-05:00

The vapor barrier for the foundation floor is being installed. This vapor barrier will prevent any moisture from seeping into the lower level.

The vapor barrier is in place and rebar has been installed prior to pouring the concrete.

Workers pour the concrete and level the surface.

The concrete floor has been poured and has begun to cure.

A worker puts the final touches on the floor surface.

Commack Continues Towards Completion!

2010-11-19T14:23:00.010-05:00

The new entrance to the Commack Building nears completion.

The new elevator is being installed.

Looking down on the Main Room from the Upper Level.

Looking at the newly completed parking lot from the main entrance.

Smithtown Footings Completed!

2010-11-08T13:58:00.012-05:00

The wooden forms are installed in preparation for the pouring of the concrete footings.

The final preparation phase before pouring the concrete was the placement of rebar inside the forms.

Concrete is being poured into the forms that will soon become the footings.

A worker is shown smoothing out the concrete.

The pouring of the concrete is complete and will be allowed to cure. Once the concrete is cured, the walls will be poured.

Commack Building Takes Shape

2010-11-03T11:16:00.010-04:00

A view of the renovated building adjacent to the entrance driveway.

The newly relocated entrance to the Commack Building nears completion!

A view of the exterior windows in the new Children's Department.

Interior view of the new Children's Department.

Nesconset Building Construction on Schedule

2010-11-03T10:43:00.011-04:00

The future entrance to the new Nesconset Building nears completion!

Energy efficient skylights have been installed which allow diffused sunlight into the building.

This is a view of the windows and doors leading into the new children's department and meeting room. This location was once the vehicle maintainence area of the Armory.

This is the former main entrance to the Armory facing Smithtown Blvd.

Work Begins at Smithtown

2010-10-28T10:13:00.023-04:00

Groundbreaking Ceremony was held on September 24th marking the beginning of the construction and renovation work at the Smithtown building.

Library Director Rob Lusak, Library Trustees and local elected officials were on hand for the groundbreaking.

Excavation begins for the new expansion of the Smithtown building.

Finishing touches are being done before the foundation can be poured.

The Smithtown building is still open despite the massive construction work that is taking place!

Work continues at a fast pace at Nesconset!

2010-09-10T10:36:00.009-04:00

The new portico to the future main entrance of the Nesconset Branch takes shape!

The walls to the new meeting room, looking toward the future Children's Department.

The old main entrance to the Armory which will become the new Periodicals/Large Print Reading Room in the new Nesconset Branch.

New HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) duct work nears completion.

A worker installing water pipes.

Commack Takes Shape!

2010-09-09T15:32:00.007-04:00

The stone facade has been completed on the entire building. This photo features the new expanded entrance to the Commack Branch.

Interior metal studs have been installed throughout the building. The wall board will be attached in the near future. These windows will allow much more natural light into the building.

The new elevator shaft nears completion. This replaces the old lift which needed constant repair and replacement parts were no longer available. This now brings it up to modern standards.

The exterior wall of the new Children's Department!

An interior view of the Children's Department. Large windows will be installed in the very near future allowing for an abundance of natural light to enter the room.

Nesconset Renovation Moving Along at a Good Pace!

2010-08-05T11:02:00.003-04:00

The interior walls are taking shape in the future Main Room. The hole cut in the wall is for a window that will add more natural light to the building.

A birds-eye view! The roof nears completion and the metal trim work has been attached to the new facade. The framework for the skylights is in place, and once completed, will allow more natural light into the building. The large stacks shown are roofing material that is being installed.

A view taken towards Smithtown Blvd. shows the installation of the water main to the building.

Steel and Stone Work at Commack

2010-08-05T10:45:00.004-04:00

Steel and stone work nears completion at the Commack Branch. The future main entrance is located straight ahead while the new Children's Department is to the right.

The floor has been cut for the future installation of the elevator.

A view of the Children's Department photographed from the new entrance to the room. The steel work nears completion and the roof will be installed soon.

Nesconset Roof and Skylights Are Ready To Be Installed

2010-07-26T15:43:00.007-04:00

A view of the metal structure that is part of the upper walls within the Main Reading Room.

The roofing material has arrived and is ready for installation.

A worker prepares the framework prior to the installation of the skylights in the Main Reading Room.

A view into the Main Reading Room from the new Children's Room.

Commack Exterior Walls Taking Shape!

2010-07-26T15:28:00.007-04:00

The walls of the new Children's Department are almost finished!

Interior and Exterior Work Continues at Nesconset

2010-07-14T12:05:00.005-04:00

The opening for the new circular window has been cut. The future main entrance becomes visible and the framework for the new portico has been installed. The old outer doors have been converted into windows flanking the new doorway.

A construction worker cuts the metal 2x4 studs which will be installed by other workers.

Two workers installing the metal studs on the walls.

A view from the future Children's Department into the new Meeting Room.

Commack Children's Department Walls Are Going Up!

2010-07-14T11:56:00.006-04:00

The walls of the new Children's Department are beginning to take shape.

A worker relocates the scaffolding as he continues to work on the wall.

Nesconset Brickwork and Interior Walls Have Been Installed

2010-07-01T12:05:00.008-04:00

A maze of metal studs and utility pipes have been installed on the main level of the new Nesconset Branch.

The former rifle range has also received metal studs and is being transformed into valuable space.

A worker applies the finishing touches on the brickwork at the top of the chimney.

Commack Branch Starting to Take Shape!

2010-07-01T11:38:00.007-04:00

Previously, the concrete was poured and left to cure. This is the location of the future Children's Department. The walls will be set in place in the coming days.

Looking out the old main door toward the new Children's Department.

The new elevator shaft begins to take shape. This elevator will make the building fully handicapped accessible.

Construction Updates at Commack and Nesconset!

2010-06-17T10:46:00.006-04:00

The lower walls are completed and the steel work is in place for the main floor of the Commack Branch Children's Department. Concrete will be poured in a few days.

Here is another view of the Commack Branch's Children's Department!

On to Nesconset...

The Nesconset Branch continues to take shape! Here are some of the new electrical lines that are being installed throughout the main level.

The new elevator shaft nears completion.

The future main entrance to the building. The two side doorways are being converted to large windows. This room will be the main reference area.

Brick work almost complete in the area where the old garage bay doors once were. This section of the building will become the new Children's Department and meeting room.

Nesconset Roof Takes Shape!

2010-06-09T10:04:00.008-04:00

The corrugated steel roof has been placed on the Nesconset building. The next step is to remove the steel sections for the new skylights. The final roof will then be installed.

Workers construct the walls for the future elevator.

On the Smithtown Blvd. side of the building, construction workers install the framework for the concrete footings on which the new brickwork will be placed. This is the former location of the main door to the old Armory.

This is the outside wall of the future Children's Department and public meeting room.

Steel and concrete work underway at Nesconset

2010-05-27T15:09:00.008-04:00

The crane lifts a steel beam to be installed on the new roof.

Workers prepare the steel for the new skylights in the future main room of the Nesconset Branch.

The old rifle range has been renovated by adding windows and doors. This formerly unusable space will be an asset to the Library!

An exterior view of the old rifle range complete with cutouts for windows and doors. Workers are bricking up the old windows on the upper level for the main room of the Library that will include the Reference and Circulation Departments along with a large reading area.

Work on the Commack interior and foundation continues

2010-05-27T14:39:00.010-04:00

The former reference desk area and home of the future elevator on the main level undergo renovation.

The former meeting room looking towards the new building expansion.

The exterior foundation walls have been poured. Construction will continue once the concrete has cured.

The lower level of the newly expanded Commack Branch.

Nesconset Building Updates!

2010-05-26T09:32:00.004-04:00

Check out this video showing the progress at our new building site in Nesconset! [Please note: There is no audio on this clip.]

Work continues at Commack!

2010-05-14T10:22:00.006-04:00

The future home of our new Children's Department starts to take shape.

The forms and steel bars are in place for the concrete to be poured for the footings.

Construction work well under way at the Commack Branch

2010-04-29T13:53:00.009-04:00

Excavation begins near the former main entrance to the Commack Branch. When completed, this will house the new Children's Room.

Looking out on to the Main Room of the Library from the mezzanine level.

Demolition begins in the old meeting room on the lower level.

This is all that remains of the former Children's Room.

The Main Room of the Commack Branch. You are looking at the old main entrance, circulation area and mezzanine level.

Commack Groundbreaking Ceremony

2010-04-29T13:24:00.007-04:00

Approximately 80 people attended the Commack Groundbreaking Ceremony on April 27, that included the Library Trustees, Design Team, staff members and local residents.

Library Trustees use their "golden" shovels to celebrate the commencement of the renovation and expansion project at the Commack Branch. Pictured are (L-R) Carolyn J. Ciarelli, John C. Martins, Rosalind F. Palazzolo, Anthony J. Monteleone, Charles A. Sauer and Joseph A. Vallone, President. Trustee Eric J. Johansson was unable to attend.

Some present and former staff members of the Commack Branch attended the ceremony.

Work continues at Nesconset

2010-04-23T10:25:00.009-04:00

The armory garage doors have been removed and new windows will soon take their place. The future Children's Department and Meeting Room will be located in this part of the building.

Following the removal of the roof, the steel beams have been sandblasted and are now being painted. A new roof will soon be installed.

The future main entrance to the Nesconset Branch Library is now visible. Graffiti has been removed from this outer wall and the remainder of the graffiti will be addressed in the coming weeks.

Commack Branch Renovation and Construction is Well Underway

2010-04-16T14:08:00.016-04:00

An excavator at work. Part of the construction and renovation project being done by contractor T. G. Nickel.

Taking care of business: A bucket loader working alongside the excavator.

Boyle Services, Inc. on site performing restoration work to the interior of the building.

Sign announcing the upcoming Commack Branch Ground Breaking Ceremony to be held on Tuesday, April 27th at 3:00pm.

Nesconset Renovation Continues!

2010-04-14T14:42:00.012-04:00

The entire roof on the future home of the Nesconset Branch has been removed.

New roofing and windows will soon be installed that will allow interior work to continue.

The soon to be past and future...

Looking out where the old front windows once were, you can see the current rented Library space across Smithtown Blvd.

2010-04-09T15:36:00.007-04:00

The Board of Trustees of The Smithtown Special Library District cordially invites you to join us for the Library's groundbreaking ceremony of the Commack Branch on Tuesday, April 27 at 3:00pm.

The building is located at 3 Indian Head Road, Commack, NY. Please join us for this exciting milestone in The Smithtown Library's history.

The Future Home of the Nesconset Branch Library

2010-04-09T09:37:00.013-04:00

The interior of the building following the removal of the wooden walls.

View of the large public area during this week's renovation work.

Removal of the old and leaking roof. Please note the safety ropes and protective gear that the workers are wearing.

The discarded roofing material is then placed in a container for proper disposal.

Work has begun!

2010-03-26T16:20:00.007-04:00

General Contractor T. G. Nickel and Associates have begun work on the Nesconset Armory, the future home of the Nesconset Branch of the Smithtown Special Library District.

Abatement work is well under way. This will be followed by the removal of the existing roof which cannot be repaired and is not weather-tight.

The removal of the old septic system was also completed and the land was properly graded with clean fill.

Removal of the concrete aprons in front of the bay doors was also undertaken.

Nesconset Groundbreaking

2010-03-22T11:11:00.011-04:00

The long awaited groundbreaking ceremony for our new Nesconset branch was held on Friday,

March 19 at 3:00pm. The speakers at the ceremony included: Robert Lusak, Library Director; Kevin Verbesey, Director, Suffolk Cooperative Library System; the Honorable John J. Flanagan, State Senator; the Honorable Patrick R. Vecchio, Supervisor, Town of Smithtown; Joseph Vallone, President, Library Board of Trustees; the Honorable John M. Kennedy, Jr., Suffolk County Legislator and the Honorable Michael Fitzpatrick, Assemblyman. Their cooperation in this endeavor cleared the way for our expansion project.

The Library would also like to thank our Library Board of Trustees: Joseph Vallone, Anthony Monteleone, Eric Johansson, Charles Sauer, Carolyn Ciarelli, John Martins and Rose Palazzollo [not pictured]. Without their hard work and commitment to the Library, none of this would have been possible.

Also on hand for the ceremony are Assistant Director Sue McManus, Director Rob Lusak, former Director Peter Ward and former Assistant Director Robert Goykin.

Nesconset Branch Groundbreaking Ceremony Rescheduled

2010-03-03T14:07:00.002-05:00

Please join us for the Library's groundbreaking ceremony of the new Nesconset Branch of Friday, March 19 at 3:00pm at the Nesconset Armory site. The building is located at 148 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset, NY.

General Contractor Named for Library Expansion Project

2010-02-18T16:17:00.003-05:00

Based on the recommendations of BBS Architects and our Owners Representative, Sail Van Nostrand, the Library Board of Trustees awarded the general contractor's bid for the Library's expansion and renovation project to T. G. Nickel and Associates of Ronkonkoma.

Nesconset Branch Groundbreaking Ceremony

2010-02-18T14:05:00.006-05:00

The Board of Trustees of The Smithtown Special Library District cordially invites you to join us for the Library's groundbreaking ceremony of the new Nesconset Branch on Friday, February 26 at 10:30am at the Nesconset Armory site. The building is located at 148 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset, NY. Please join us for this exciting milestone in The Smithtown Library's history.

Commack Building Closed for Renovations and Expansion

2010-02-18T11:06:00.003-05:00

Due to heating and electrical emergencies, the Board of Trustees of the Smithtown Special Library District voted to close the Commack Branch of the Smithtown Library effective February 5, 2010. The building will remain closed until completion of the Library's renovation and expansion project. All other Smithtown Library buildings are open for their normal hours. In addition, the Kings Park branch will be open on Sundays as will the Smithtown Main library from 1:00pm to 5:00pm.

Materials requested by Commack patrons have been transferred to our Kings Park branch.

Library Board Seeks to Employ Local Trades

2009-10-26T15:17:00.005-04:00

At a special meeting held on October 20th the Library Board authorized the Library Director, Robert Lusak to enter into a PLA with local trade unions. A PLA or Project Labor Agreement specifies work that can only be performed by local union construction workers. In return, the labor unions will guarantee no work stoppages. An added benefit of the agreement is that the Library can engage one general contactor for the entire renovation/construction project which will reduce job costs.

To gauge the feasibility of a PLA for the Library, the Board engaged a local construction consultant, Cashin Associates to conduct a cost analysis. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that using one general contractor and a PLA would be beneficial for the Library. There will also be more control over the project by going this route.

While the study was being conducted, the Library wasted no time and has already been speaking with union representatives. An agreement is thought to be at hand.

At the same time the Board has also advertised for proposals from general contractors who are interested in bidding on the project. At the special meeting, the Board authorized the Library's Owner's Representative to establish pre-qualifying criteria for the solicitation of bids from the pre-qualified list of contractors. The actual bidding process will not begin until the PLA is finalized. There are also still a few minor outstanding issues related to building permits that must be resolved.

The construction of public buildings has normally been subject to the Wicks Law which specifies that parts of the construction work must be bid to subcontractors. Critics of the Wicks Law say this is one of the factors that increases the cost and time of constructing public buildings. Recent changes in the law governing public building projects allow a project to proceed with one prime contractor in certain circumstances where a Project Labor Agreement is enacted.

Energy Model Shows Large Green Savings

2009-09-28T15:03:00.012-04:00

The Library will save $49,000 in annual energy costs at the future Nesconset Branch alone, according to the Long Island Power Authority. LIPA recently completed energy modeling for the Nesconset Branch that showed a substantial savings over a traditional design. The LIPA modeling was conducted as part of the Library's plan to have our renovated buildings be certified as green buildings. Much of the costs of the green certification is being offset by incentives and grants. Library officials are hopeful that similar energy savings will be achieved in all four buildings.

The U. S. Green Building Council www.usgbc.org gives the official LEED certification as a green building. In addition to energy conservation, the Library will be using environmentally friendly techniques and products in the demolition, construction and operation phases of the rebuilt library buildings. In anticipation of becoming green, the library has already begun replacing many of our custodial and maintenance products with green products. There were initial concerns that these green products would be more expensive than the old products. So far, however, the green products have had a savings over the traditional products.

With building plans complete, the Library asked for new exterior renderings of all buildings which will show the final design. There are only a few minor outstanding issues with local government agencies that are delaying the start of construction. The Library had requested that those issues not delay the issuance of building permits since they are bureaucratic in nature and do not substantially effect the plans. We are currently awaiting a response from the Town and Village of the Branch.

Commack

Kings Park

Nesconset

Smithtown

Smithtown Main Plans Approved

2009-07-06T10:49:00.008-04:00

Our plans for the construction of the Main Library in Smithtown were approved by the Village of The Branch Planning Board at their June 24th meeting. All four buildings have now received the go ahead from all appropriate planning agencies.

Architect Steve Walsh presented the Library's plans to the Village of the Branch Planning Board

The last governmental hurdle for the Library are the actual building permits. Permits from both the Town of Smithtown and the Village are expected shortly. As soon as the permits are received, the Library will begin the bidding process for the general contracting services. We are still on target for construction to begin in the fall.

Kings Park's New Look

2009-05-08T14:22:00.007-04:00

One of the questions that needed to be answered as the Town Planning Board prepared their final approval for the Library's Expansion was the look of the Kings Park Building. Some community leaders were thinking they wanted a more traditional appearance than the current library. At a recent meeting, the Library Trustees decided that since the residents would be living with the library building for years to come, we should see if we could dress the exterior in a style that satisfied the Town Planners, the community leaders and the Library.

Library architect Roger Smith and his staff went back to the drawing board. The rendering shown here was first developed as a series of pencil sketches that evolved into this final look. In the end everyone was pleased.

The Kings Park drawing was the first to be completed since more of the detail had been created for the community leaders. Renderings are currently being prepared for Nesconset and Commack. The process of creating the final renderings is laborious. The library wanted to wait until the approval process was coming to a close to avoid revisions. The Main Library in Smithtown is still awaiting final approval by the Village of The Branch. We will post the other drawings as soon as they are done, so check back or subscribe to the blog for updates.

Commack, Kings Park and Nesconset Plans Approved by Planning Board

2009-05-06T16:10:00.004-04:00

The site plans for the Commack, Kings Park and Nesconset Libraries were approved by the Smithtown Planning Board at their meeting on Tuesday, May 5, 2009. This leaves one last bureaucratic hurdle for the Library at these three locations. The Town Building Department must issue building permits before the bidding process can begin. The Library has been planning on bidding all four buildings simultaneously in order to get the best price and to insure standardization of materials in all four buildings.

We are still awaiting approvals from the Village of the Branch. Village officials have expressed satisfaction with the plans for the Main Library, which is located within Village boundary lines. Bidding cannot begin, however, until the Library receives official approval from the Town and Village departments.

It is expected that the bidding process will take about two months and the construction should begin shortly after the contracts are awarded.

Library officials are excited that the project has been able to take advantage of historically low interest rates, reduced construction costs and environmentally friendly green technology while providing valuable construction jobs during these challenging times.

Signs of Spring and Construction

2009-04-30T17:21:00.018-04:00

Spring brings out the gardener in all of us. Our project team grabbed their shovels to unearth some underground drainage systems in preparation for an inspection by the Suffolk County Department of Health Services. Approval from the County on this item means that the last hurdles prior to bidding the project are approvals from the Town of Smithtown and The Village of the Branch.

Here is one of the excavations at Kings Park. Electronic equipment insures that the holes are dug exactly in the correct spot and only as large as is necessary to gain access.

All's well at Commack as the crew hits the spot with precision.

Library Buildings Will Be Green

2009-04-21T14:40:00.003-04:00

At a special work session on Friday, April 17th, the Library Board took another step toward making the new and renovated Smithtown Library Buildings green. There are many thoughts about just what makes a building green, but the Smithtown Library is committed to pursuing LEED Certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) from the U.S. Green Building Council. Present at Friday's meeting were LEED accredited green building experts from the Library's architectural firm BBS, the Library's construction consultants, a LIPA green building expert, Library Board members and administrative staff.

LEED Green Building certification is based on meeting certain criteria from a list of elements developed by the Green Building Council (USGBC) http://www.usgbc.org/ . Each item on the list has a point value. To qualify as green, the building must incorporate enough green elements to attain the point threshold established by the USGBC. One of the most interesting aspects of LEED certification is that it is an open and transparent process which results in environmentally friendly buildings. We will keep you up to date on our progress as things move forward.

At Friday’s meeting each item on the USGBC list was reviewed and evaluated in terms of cost, desirability and feasibility. The end result was that LEED certification may be possible in all buildings. Many of the items on the list qualify for cost reimbursement and others will result in long term energy efficiency.

LEED certification has been a goal of Board President Eric Johansson from the start, but added costs were always perceived as the gorilla in the room. Surprisingly, a good number of green elements do not add to construction costs, but are just good sound enhancements to the construction process and the operation of the buildings. Some elements do add costs but were seen as desirable goals. Everyone at the work session was pleased to be able to add the prospect of delivering green Libraries to our residents

Green Libraries And Other Enhancements Added At March 25 Meeting

2009-03-27T15:12:00.005-04:00

The Library Board held a special meeting on March 25 to hammer out a number of outstanding issues related to the construction project. As the project enters the last round of the permitting and approval process, the overall message of the meeting was “Plan for the Future!” Among the decisions made were Green Building designations, the location of administrative offices, storage space allocations and some extras and finishing touches at Commack and Kings Park. The total size of the buildings and the allocation of public space have not changed from the plan that was approved by the voters in March 2008.

The Board has always had a wish list of items called add alternates which could be included or eliminated as the project progressed. As more detail is designed and built, more exact costs can be assigned. The further development of our plan and recent changes in the economy prompted the Board to fast track some of these add alternates. The Town Planning agencies work on monthly cycles so missing a deadline can mean a month delay.

Green Buildings: One of the main reasons our building program was brought to the public was that our air conditioning, heating and electrical systems had been running for 40 years without any major upgrades. Not only are these systems on their last legs, but they were built at a time when energy efficiency wasn’t given much attention. Well times have changed and the board has made the commitment to try to obtain LEED certification from the U. S. Green Building Council http://www.usgbc.org/. The Library has hired Smithtown’s own Horizon Energy Consultants and will also work with LIPA to try to gain Green Building Certification. This certification goes beyond energy efficiency and deals with a range of environmentally friendly and healthy building characteristics. Most of the green consulting costs will be reimbursed by LIPA. In addition there are rebates available for implementing some green technologies.

Administrative offices: The question of exactly which offices would remain in each building was resolved. The Library Director and Business office will stay in Smithtown, while some services like Networking, Internet, Newsletter and Graphics will move to the Armory. The amount of available public space in Smithtown was retained by moving more storage capacity to Nesconset.

Smithtown: The addition at Smithtown will be reinforced so a second floor could be added in the future if needed.

Nesconset: A cost savings was achieved by the decision to have the second floor of the Armory used for storage instead of offices. Green building certification requires a basic level of finishes and energy efficiency so this storage space could be easily converted to other uses if the need arose in the future.

Commack: One of the add alternates for Commack has been to build basement storage under the new addition instead of building on a slab. The Board decided to move forward by including the basement and also adding outside access to the new basement.

Kings Park: The Board decided to add the same type of basement and access in Kings Park as in Commack. As the final plans were being reviewed by the Town planners, we were informed that members of the Kings Park community wanted to change the contemporary look of the existing building and the new matching addition to a more traditional, perhaps colonial feel. Redesign at this stage will add architectural fees and construction costs. A more complicated exterior will cost more than the current sleek contemporary design. Ultimately, the Board wanted the residents to be happy with their library. They felt that in the long term, the delay in starting the construction of the buildings and the elimination of other potential add alternates would be outweighed by the long term impression realized by including an exterior design that the Kings Park community is looking to achieve.

Construction Status: We are still waiting for final approval of our building plans by the Town of Smithtown and The Village of the Branch. The Main Library is in Village jurisdiction and the other three are in the Town. The Library Board has been advised that they will get the most for their dollar if all four buildings are bid as one project. They are anxiously awaiting approvals. Once the approvals are received, the projects will be bid. Construction should start within two months of the bidding process.

Library Bonds Available

2008-11-28T10:40:00.007-05:00

The financing of our expansion project has taken another step forward. The Library's bonds are now available for purchase.

The Preliminary Official Statement for the following issue is now available: $21,000,000DORMITORY AUTHORITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK SMITHTOWN SPECIAL LIBRARY DISTRICT REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2008

This document may be viewed on our website: http://www.smithlib.org/

Questions may be directed to:

Mr. David W. Donohue, Senior Vice President

Mr. William W. Welsh, Senior Vice President

Roosevelt & Cross, Incorporated

One Exchange Plaza New York, NY 10006

(800) 348-3426

Let Your Light Shine

2008-11-04T15:40:00.017-05:00

Our expansion and renovation plans are moving ahead. There have been some questions about how the defeat of the 2009 operating budget will impact our building plans. There will be some reductions in hours and services in 2009 but the building bond was a separate referendum that will remain in place. The project will move forward as decided by the voters.

Now that all of the preliminary engineering work has been completed, the plans are ready to present to zoning, building and health departments.

While we're waiting, behind the scenes planning on interior details is occurring. Temporary electricity has been installed in the Armory. We're finally looking at the interior with the lights on instead of by flashlight! With rooms fully illuminated, we can start to imagine our new facility becoming reality.

This section near the original front entrance on Smithtown Boulevard is slated to become the periodicals and quiet study area.

Former classrooms on the first floor will house part of our Technical Services Department which is currently operating in rented space across the street. Technical Services serves our four libraries, purchasing, receiving and preparing library material for the shelves. They also maintain our online catalog database.

This is a view of the second floor hallway. The windows look out over the former drill room which will become the main public room in the Nesconset Branch.

This 1960's era office, reminiscent of some of our current facilities, will become storage.

2008-09-02T13:04:00.015-04:00

Soil test borings are conducted at the Commack Branch. The soil is tested to determine what kind of concrete and footings will be needed for the new additions. Borings should be complete at all four buildings by the end of the first week in September.

2008-08-18T18:13:00.003-04:00

Our expansion and renovation plans took an important step forward in early August. At a special meeting held on August 6, the Board of Trustees of the Smithtown Special Library District voted to retain the services of LKRK Enterprises, LLC as the Library's Owners Representative. LKRK will provide services during the design, bid and construction of the Library's Expansion and Renovation program. Details of the design now are being fine tuned by the Library, Architect and our new Owners Representative. LKRK principal R. Sail Van Nostrand has years of experience in construction management and has worked on numerous public library projects.

Work continues to take place behind the scenes...

2008-08-05T12:19:00.005-04:00

Requests for Proposals (RFPs) have been sent out for environmental sampling services at the Nesconset Armory site. In addition, soil test borings have taken place at all four sites. Field surveys for all of the building locations have been completed and are currently being reviewed by the Library's architects. Plans for the Smithtown Main Library are underway and are being fully developed. RFPs to bring in temporary electrical service at the Nesconset Armory building have also been sent out and will be reviewed.

The work to secure the building and protect it from the elements has been completed. Dirt piles and debris have also been removed from the site.

The Survey Says.....

2008-06-16T17:54:00.025-04:00

The latest signs of activity related to our project have been the surveyors at our buildings. Site surveys have been completed at Smithtown, Commack, Kings Park and the Armory. Perhaps even more important than the location of buildings, trees and parking lots are the objects that are underground. Before plans can be approved and before construction can begin, things like cables, pipes, tanks, wells and drains must be located and entered on our surveys and construction drawings. Detailed maps of the property are being prepared and must be submitted to the Zoning Boards in the Village of the Branch and the Town of Smithtown.

Here, the surveyor is locating underground objects on the property at the Smithtown Main Library.

Library Support Reaches New Heights!

2008-06-03T12:29:00.002-04:00

The work to shore up the roof and secure the windows in the Armory is continuing. At the same time Structural Engineers are inspecting each steel support beam inch by inch. If any problem areas are located the steel will be replaced when the old roof is removed after construction begins.

Expansion Financing Moving Forward

2008-05-29T13:11:00.003-04:00

The March 2008 vote to expand and improve our library was only the first step toward giving us the financing we need to build. Yesterday at its May 28th Board Meeting, The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) Board adopted a Resolution to Proceed with a 20-year bond issue for an amount not to exceed $21 million on behalf of the Smithtown Special Library District. They will be submitting our application to the Public Authorities Control Board this coming Monday, June 2nd and reaching out to prospective bond insurers over the next few days.

Securing the Roof

2008-05-23T15:54:00.053-04:00

Five or six years ago there were sofas and mattresses, barbecues and other "comforts" inside the Armory. All of that was cleaned out and the building was secured. Still, some people went to great efforts to enter through the roof as this picture of ropes and rock ladders from today shows.

We're working to fix some of the holes in the roof. It's been leaking for years and fixing it could help keep the structure from deteriorating further. Now that the main room has been cleaned we're sealing up the roof and other openings to try to prevent further water damage and keep out the pests.

Some of the holes had to be made bigger to find a solid spot to secure the repair material.

Some sections of the roof are so weak that it is fortunate no one ever fell through.

The repair bays will house the new Children's Room and Meeting Room. That piece of equipment looks like a children's story in the making!

The rear bay door was open when this photo was taken. The hole in the roof was made larger in an effort to find some solid material to anchor the repair. You can start to get a feel for what the new library might look like. The rear bay door will be the new main entrance. This large area is the former drill room. The Reference, Circulation, Adult and Young Adult areas will occupy this space. The windows at the far end are the area on the second floor that will house the District offices that are moving to create more public space in the Main Library in Smithtown.

Cleaning Up the Armory!

2008-05-19T14:07:00.004-04:00

Today we are beginning the cleaning processes at the Armory in preparation for construction!

It's Official!

2008-05-19T13:29:00.007-04:00

The Armory is right across the street from the current Nesconset Library location, and will soon be home to our new library!

What have we been up to? The Library Board, Staff and Architects are hard at work behind the scenes planning for the construction of your library buildings.

Finishing touches are being put on the drawings as we go over each building inch by inch to bring you the best new designs.

With the vote passing in March, by April, the Board had already approved financing with the New York State Dormitory Authority.

The first sign of change -- The new fence securing the old front door to the Armory

You may notice the surveyers and engineers combing all of the the sites to make sure there are no surprises!

Now that the project is approved by the voters, we can, and have been, looking at available construction grants.