By: Lori Bledsoe
The Alpine Sun
The Topping out Ceremony marks the completion of steel construction to a new building project, and our Alpine Library’s Topping Out was celebrated last Thursday, catered by Dickey’s Barbeque.
Many watched as the enormous crane placed the massive red girders. This is exciting news for all bibliophiles and techies alike because it means that Alpine is one step closer to having our new library.
By: Lori Bledsoe
The Alpine Sun
The Topping out Ceremony marks the completion of steel construction to a new building project, and our Alpine Library’s Topping Out was celebrated last Thursday, catered by Dickey’s Barbeque.
Many watched as the enormous crane placed the massive red girders. This is exciting news for all bibliophiles and techies alike because it means that Alpine is one step closer to having our new library.
Last week in The Alpine Sun, we ran a FAQ that was pulled from the Friends of the Alpine Library that unfortunately was outdated at the time of publication. Here are updated facts about the construction:
Construction is now moving forward on the new 12,700 square foot Alpine Library. The pad is complete and the steel construction is complete.
The current library on Arnold Way is approximately 3,000 square feet and houses books, some computers, a children’s activity area and a meeting space. The new library will have separate Toddler, children’s, homework, Discover, Teen, Tweens, and adult areas where all Alpine residents can enjoy books, CDs, DVDs, electronic books, and indoor/outdoor seating. The library will have two resource rooms, which will offer many programs for all ages. Music, art, physical activity, a computer lab and laptops for use all over the library will make this a hub for the Alpine Community.
In addition, there will be beautiful artwork created to enhance the experience for library users, An original 16 x 3 foot ceramic 3 dimensional ceramic mural featuring Alpine Flora and fauna will grace the front entry. Facing the Wall of Honor will be five large medallions, which will complement the moving experience afforded by the memorial. The artist, Betsy Schultz is widely acclaimed across the Western United States. In addition, original metallic sculptures by Peter Mitton will form an art gate adjacent to his work. Inside, two giant trees will welcome children and provide a cozy nook for young readers. Teens will enjoy their own area with booths in vibrant colors ad study rooms for group work. A game console and many laptops will also be available.
The library will be Net Zero energy, meaning all energy needs will be met on-site averaged over each year. It is the first San Diego County built building to be so designated.