Delridge Branch History
In 1996, the Library opened a self-service unit with a computer and a small collection in the Southwest Youth and Family Services Center. It quickly became apparent that Delridge needed more.
In 1998, voters approved the $196.4 million "Libraries for All" bond measure and The Seattle Public Library Foundation pledged to contribute privately raised money to improve the Library system. The plan included building a new Delridge Branch and construction began in May 2001.
Delridge Branch 2002 replacement
The branch replaced a small self-service facility in the Southwest Youth and Family Services Center.
The new branch now has:
- a collection of 20,000 books and materials
- reading and study areas
- modern technology services and equipment
- special areas for children and young adults
- a meeting room
- new computers
Quick facts
- Project type: New branch library
- Completion date: 2002
- Budget for capital costs: $3 million
- Total library program area: 5,600 square feet
- Computers: 11
- Artists: Nick Lyle & Jean Whitesavage
- Art budget: $37,236
- Library Board steward: Greg Maffei
- Architect: Stickney Murphy Romine Architects
- Contractor: Walsh Construction Co.
Milestones
- June 2002: Residents enjoyed activities, food and music at the grand opening celebration of the new Delridge Branch on Saturday, June 29.
- May 2001: Residents attended a groundbreaking ceremony sponsored by the Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association (DNDA).
- June 2000: Residents attended a presentation on the progress of the design of the new library. The Seattle Public Library board of trustees selected metal artists Nick Lyle and Jean Whitesavage to design artwork for the new branch.
- February 2000: About 35 people attended a pre-design "hopes and dreams" meeting to share ideas on services, collections and programs.
- November 1999: The Seattle Public Library Foundation agreed to fund the library.
- July 1999: The Library Board asked Library staff to begin to negotiate an ownership or lease agreement with the DNDA.
- June 1999: About 35 people attended a community meeting to talk about where to build a new library.
- November 1998: Seattle voters approved the $196.4 million "Libraries for All" bond measure. The bond money, which could be used only for construction of libraries, funded a new Central Library and new and improved branches.