Edith Belle Libby Library Expansion Update

The Edith Belle Libby Memorial Library was “modern” in style and spirit when it opened in Old Orchard Beach’s Memorial Park in 1957.  Now, fifty years later, it no longer meets the needs of 21st century technology or a community that is rapidly evolving from a seaside resort to an affordable year-round choice for residents working in Portland, Portsmouth or Boston.  But that will change soon.Scattergood Design’s 4500 SF addition will more than double the size of the library building.  Four quadrants containing the essential program components—Reference, Children’s, Stacks/Study and Community Space—are connected to building entrances along two intersecting pathways.  A centrally-located curved circulation counter forms the hub.  New spaces take advantage of the park setting, offering niches for study or quiet contemplation.Sustainable design features of the new design include: triple-glazed windows to reduce energy loss;  light shelves to increase natural illumination and reduce solar gain; a vegetated roof for control of rainwater runoff; airtight, gas-fired fireplace; and geo-thermal heat pumps for heating and air-conditioning.Eight pre-qualified general contractors submitted bids for the project in January.  All bids came in well under the construction budget, and Benchmark Construction of Westbrook, Maine was awarded the contract, with BuildingWorks as Project Manager.  With the groundbreaking in April, construction is progressing toward completion in December 2014.