Library renovation plan gets $400K in congressional funding

From our friend, Pasadena PIO Ann Erdman, who forwards to us a news release from Rep.  Adam Schiff:

Last night, the House passed the Department of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (H.R. 3288), which included funding Rep. Schiff helped secure for three local construction projects in the 29th Congressional District.  The three programs will help the region’s economy, relieve congestion, add to the quality of life of local residents, and improve safety.

Among the projects:

The bill also included $400,000 for a renovation and addition project at the Altadena Library.  The Main Altadena Library is 41 years old and in desperate need of repair, renovation, and expansion to provide modern library services.  It is overcrowded and shows the effects of past earthquakes with cracks in the ceilings, concrete slabs, and windows.  It lacks energy efficiency, has antiquated lighting, has encapsulated asbestos throughout which needs removal, and is non-ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant.  In addition, old bookstacks do not meet seismic codes and cannot be retrofitted because of age and welding.  This funding will be used for design and engineering studies as well as construction.  This funding will improve the quality of life for the entire community and will assist the library in continuing providing much needed public services in a safe environment.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the Altadena Library which, as an independent library district, is traditionally wholly dependent on property tax revenue for its funding,” said Dale E. LaCasella, President, Board of Trustees.  “It will be a substantial step toward realizing our goal of making the library fully accessible to all residents.”