According to Jennifer Davidson, director of library services, the library will be closed for a short period of time before the relocation, which is expected to happen in late summer or early fall, in order to properly move everything. Online books and magazines will still be available while the library is closed, with library staff available for outreach and to answer reference questions during that time.
Davidson said the library is working with the architect to decide what is needed in the new location to house the library's collection, which would be open for over three years.
The temporary library space, which will be its home for around the next three years, includes a storytime room for kids programs and a conference room that will host computer classes, book clubs and board meetings, according to library officials.
As the move is underway, Council Member Joe Corcoran said during an April 24 Richardson City Council meeting where details of the plan were discussed that he’s hoping to provide constant updates on the relocation to residents.
“As everything is being shuffled around, communication is going to be so important to all the patrons,” he said. “Not just through our traditional channels, but also preemptive communication in the library.”
A combined $58.5 million library and City Hall renovation project was approved by voters in a 2021 bond election. Library renovations included increasing floor space, providing more accessible community areas and repairing exterior structural deficiencies.
After an August 2022 City Hall fire delayed the project, City Manager Don Magner recommended finding a temporary space to house both City Hall and the library to allow for city operations to continue until construction is over. Magner signed a 3.5-year lease at the site in February. Magner said he projects city operations to be in the space until the end of 2026, with a further option to extend.
Richardson residents will vote on a $46 million bond proposition during the general election on whether to approve a new City Hall facility next to the library.
City officials recommended awarding CORE Construction with the remodel project for the temporary space. According to city officials, CORE Construction has completed numerous facility projects for Richardson, including the construction of Fire Station No. 3. The cost of renovation is not expected to exceed about $1.72 million.
According to city officials, funding for the temporary City Hall portion will be from insurance proceeds, while funding for the temporary library portion will be from 2021 bond funds and certificates of obligation.
Remodel for the temporary site is anticipated to begin in May, with construction expected to be completed in multiple phases by August.
For more information on the project, click here.
