by Marianne Christy
Gaetano Construction broke ground for the new expansion to the Old Forge Library on Tuesday, September 8th.
The six-foot addition will square off the entrance side of the building while maintaining the original character of the facility, and allows for the expansion of the children’s and staff rooms.
“The project will permit us to serve an important and growing portion of our public—the children—and will increase the size and capabilities of the staff area,” said Library Director Isabella Worthen.
The improved children’s room will include more footage for books and materials, as well as hookups for laptops. It also creates more open space to accommodate small gatherings and programs, and offers an unobstructed view of activity in the room by library staff.
Worthen said the building project will not disrupt the daily operations of the library; books and materials in the affected areas will be available elsewhere until completion.
Architect for the addition is Andy Alesia of Alesia & Crewell Architects. The construction is being overseen by David Kleps, vice-president of Gaetano’s Design/Build projects; Steve Lenard, project manager; Bob Johnson, superintendent; and machine operator, Gary Edgin.
Richard Risley will handle the electrical work and David Berkstresser, an Old Forge Library board member, will take care of the heating system.
Financing is provided by Ron and Debbie Greene; The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties: The Aaron F. and Faith B. Norton Fund, The A. Richard Cohen Family Fund, The Franklin J. Ely First Lake Foundation Fund, and The Rosamond G. Childs Fund; a New York State Educational Construction Grant; several Bullet Grants from State Senator Hugh Farley; and a donation in memory of Mary Diamond.
“The Library Board and staff are deeply appreciative of all who made this expansion possible,” Worthen said.
The project is anticipated to be completed by Thanksgiving.