The Belmar Library in central Lakewood is closed beginning Monday, Sept. 30 as it begins an extensive redesign project. The final open day is Sunday, Sept 29.
Jefferson County Public Library (JCPL) is planning a major redesign of the Belmar Library located at 555 South Allison Parkway in Lakewood. The Library will be closed for construction Sept. 30 through spring 2020 when it reopens its doors as a new, 21st century library.
First opened in 2000, the Belmar Library is due for a major refresh to reflect new trends in library service, make better use of available space and update infrastructure, furnishings and fixtures.
“The Belmar Library redesign project reflects our community’s interest and needs,” said Donna Walker, executive director, Jefferson County Public Library. “We listened to their ideas about what they want in their library and we’re working with architects to bring these dreams to reality.”
Using the community input, JCPL identified key areas of focus in redesigning the library. Increasing safety and security and providing a welcoming environment are paramount to the project. By redesigning the space to find efficiencies, JCPL increases the usable square footage of the building with enhanced way-finding and improved organization. The Library also hopes to enhance the connection to the adjacent park and outdoor space by reflecting the natural surroundings in the design and creating opportunities inside for people to experience the outdoors from various areas throughout the library. By meeting each of these focus areas, JCPL can provide a library that promotes lifelong learning and the freedom for everyone to explore.
During construction, patrons can visit other locations, opens a new window or use the Belmar Library Holds Locker and Vending Machine coming soon to the parking garage the Lakewood Civic and Cultural Center (470 S. Allison Parkway). The first in Jefferson County, the lockers and vending machine are easy to use, convenient and fun, offering patrons the ability to place a hold online, then pick up items and return them directly to the lockers. They can also browse a small collection in the vending machine and take the item of choice home right away.
Other library services, like Story Times, Book a Librarian, programs and computer classes are available at other nearby locations.
HDR, a global engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services firm, is providing architectural and design services for this project.
Residents can follow the project and get updates on the remodel at jeffcolibrary.org/belmar-remodel.
