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Salem Public Library Seismic and Safety Upgrade Project

Between early 2020 and late 2021, the Salem Public Library underwent major renovations to improve safety, accessibility, and functionality. These updates made the 1972 building safer during earthquakes, easier to access for everyone, and more modern overall. Key improvements included:

  • Upgraded systems (heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, and roofing)
  • Solar panels
  • Additional windows
  • Parkade upgrades

During the renovation, the library continued to serve the community by offering strong online services. However, in-person services were closed for much of this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why This Project Matters

The library is a vital resource for the Salem community, serving more than165,000 people each year. It provides access to books, technology, meeting spaces, and educational programs for all ages. The renovations addressed critical safety concerns, ensured compliance with accessibility standards, and modernized the building to meet the community’s evolving needs. These updates make the library a safer, more welcoming space for everyone.

Community Involvement

Residents Helped Shape the Project

Community input played a key role in shaping the renovation. Residents shared their ideas and priorities during several public events:

  • February 19, 2019: A Community Open House launched the design process. Residents shared what they valued most about the library and suggested improvements. Surveys were also available for those unable to attend.
  • April 30, 2019: A second Open House presented early design ideas and gathered feedback. Library Renovation Community Open House Presentation
  • October 26, 2019: A final Open House showed how community input influenced the preliminary design.

These events ensured the renovation reflected the community’s needs and priorities.

Reopening and New Features

As the renovation progressed, services gradually reopened. Curbside pickup allowed residents to check out books safely during the pandemic. On October 1, 2021, the library reopened to the public with limited hours and social distancing measures. By spring 2022, regular services resumed, and new features, such as study rooms, were introduced to better serve the community.

 

Current Library Hours and Locations

About the Renovation Project

In November 2017, Salem voters approved General Obligation Bond Measure 24-423, which provided $18.6 million to improve the Salem Public Library. The project focused on making the library safer during earthquakes, improving accessibility, and upgrading systems to ensure it remains safe and useful for the community.

Seismic Safety Improvements

The original library building, constructed in 1972, was not designed to withstand a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake. A 2014 engineering study by Portland firm BergerABAM found that the library and its parking structure did not meet life safety standards, putting users, staff, and volunteers at risk during a major earthquake. The City addressed these concerns by completing a seismic retrofit, ensuring the library is structurally sound and safe during earthquakes.

Accessibility Upgrades

The library was built before the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was established. Renovations brought the building into compliance with ADA standards, making it easier for all patrons to access library services.

Other Upgrades

Shelving Replacement: Outdated shelving from the 1950s was replaced with earthquake-resistant shelving.
Security and Audio Systems: Old security cameras and audio systems were replaced to improve safety and function.
Building Systems: Electrical wiring, plumbing, and ductwork were updated to extend the building’s lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.

Project schedule

  • Design Phase: The City partnered with Howard S. Wright Construction and Hacker Architects, both experienced in library design. The team worked to stay within budget despite a challenging construction market. They also developed a seismic retrofit solution that preserved the library’s space while improving safety.
  • Temporary Relocation: During construction, library services were temporarily relocated. This phase ended on September 1, 2021.
  • Construction Phase: Construction began in early 2020 and was completed by late 2021.

Progressive Design-Build Method

The City used a Progressive Design-Build method for the renovation, which allowed for close collaboration between the contractor, architect, and City staff. This approach offered several benefits:

  • Team Coordination: Early collaboration improved planning and sequencing.
  • Real-Time Cost Evaluation: The team could adjust plans based on market conditions.
  • Reduced Risk: A single contract minimized risks of miscommunication and cost overruns.

This method ensured the project stayed on track, within budget, and aligned with the community’s needs.

Salem Public Library Today

The renovated Salem Public Library now serves the community as a safer, more accessible, and modern space. It houses a collection of 337,000 items, serves 1,600 daily visitors, and hosts over 2,000 programs each year. With improved safety, accessibility, and functionality, the library continues to be a vital resource for learning, connection, and community events.