The North Branch of the Berkeley Public Library will close Saturday April 23 at 6 pm for a year of renovation.
During that time, the building will be expanded, made more accessible for the disabled, and seismically strengthened.
When the branch reopens, there will be a new two-story addition with expanded multipurpose room, larger teen room, and new staff workroom. There will be more computers, better seating and better lighting. The lobby and rotunda area will be rehabilitated and there will be a “contemporary interpretation of the historic chandelier,” according to the library branch renovation website.
The renovations will be paid with part of the $26 million in bond money raised by Measure FF, which voters approved in 2008. The Berkeley Public Library Foundation will pay for new furniture and fixtures.
Starting April 25, North Branch patrons will be able to request that their reserved books be brought to the neighborhood in the BranchVan, which will be parked at the Live Oak Community Center (Shattuck Ave. at Berryman St.) The BranchVan will be there during these hours:
Mon and Fri: 2:30 – 5:30
Tue and Sat: 10:00 – 1:00
Wed: 12:00 – 3:00
Thu: 4:30 – 7:30
