DATE: August 12, 2014
MEDIA CONTACT: Catherine McElrath
Libraries Division
EMAIL: cmcelrath@Broward.org
PHONE: 954-357-7402
Broward County, FL – The covered bridge connecting the Main Library, 100 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, to the City Park Garage, 150 SE 2nd Street, is now open to pedestrian traffic. Visitors can now access the library from the garage through the Northeast entrance on the second floor.
The re-opening of the bridge is another milestone in the ongoing effort to renovate the 30-year-old structure that sustained significant damage from several tropical systems including Hurricane Wilma. Work done on the bridge includes replacement of louvers, glass panels and glass railings with large object impact resistant glass, replacement of the steel tube structure with corrosion resistant materials and paint, and installation of American with Disabilities (ADA) compliant large object impact resistant entry doors.
Additional renovation work completed includes replacement of all exterior openings with code compliant, energy efficient and wind resistant windows, and structural steel frame restoration to provide high level protection from the elements. Other improvements include replacement of escalators and elevators, replacement of damaged tiles, new roof and roof condenser, new lightning protection system, installation of energy efficient lighting, and carpet replacement on several floors. More noticeable changes to visitors include significant noise reduction, improved air quality, lighting and temperature control, and better insulation from the elements with improved glare and temperature control of window facades.
Renovation is expected to be completed in the fall of 2014.
For information about the library project contact Ariadna Musarra at 954-357-6473. To learn about Library programs and services visit the library's website.
About the Broward County Public Library
The award-winning Broward County Libraries Division, founded in 1974, is the largest library system in Florida by square footage and one of the busiest, with more than 9 million walk-in customers visiting its 39 locations annually. The library has more than 3.4 million items and 2,000 computers for public use, and offers hundreds of events and programs to meet the needs of Broward County's diverse community. Broward County Libraries Division continues its strong emphasis on literacy, after-school programs and electronic access. In addition to our comprehensive Web site, Broward.org/Library, which provides information about library activities, links to online catalogs, reference information and databases, customers can visit BCL WoW - Broward County Library Without Walls – for free eBooks, music, audiobooks, apps, movies and more. Customers may also follow Libraries on Facebook and Twitter. Libraries Division also administers the services, programs, collections and exhibits of the Broward County Historical Commission.