For Frequently Asked Questions about the New Building Click HERE

Contact: Susan Rudnicky
585/589-4246

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It's a Celebration!!! Library Board Members look on as President Kevin Doherty signs contracts.

“Swan Volunteers Designing A 100-Year Library for Village of Albion”

(Albion, NY --- September 16, 2010) Swan Library volunteers have no interest in building a new facility with a short lifespan.  After all, the 160-year old, 4-story Burrows’ mansion, has dutifully served as the library’s existing home for over 7,000 cardholders and guests for the past century.

“Although it’s past time for a new library,” said Kevin Doherty, president of the Swan Library Board of Trustees, “we can’t rush the building process for fear of constructing an inferior product.  The village and the library need to be deliberative in their planning to ensure that this new library will deliver value to local residents.  We have a good handle on what current and future users and guests will be looking for in a new library.  For the village, they’re considering how the new library, now relocated to the former Dale’s Supermarket site, will best serve as a gateway into Albion’s historic district.  We both have much at stake and we need to act cautiously.

“We’re clearly making progress on design and construction documents as well as fundraising,” added Doherty. “Despite the inherent difficulties of working through the summer, the architects have had the right decision-makers sitting at the table at the appro­priate time allowing us to march right along. A fall 2011 library opening is what we’re shooting for, but we’re not locked in to a start date. Much will depend on the weather this fall.”

Volunteer Committee in Charge of Final Design

Since April 2010, a six-member building committee led by Eric Brown of Waterport has been overseeing the library design process.  It will be the responsibility of this group to consider form, function and cost before presenting a final building recommendation to the Swan Library Board of Trustees for approval. 

“Everything is still tentative, but we’re beginning to narrow things down to fit budget realities and comply with village codes,” said Eric Brown.  “So far we’ve been working with a building wish list. Based on costs, we’ll be making modifications and adjustments to reach a compromise that will provide long term sustainability that we can all live with. At that point we’ll make a final building recommendation to the library trustees for their approval.  We’re also considering using a construction management firm rather than a general contractor to realize potential cost savings if the project is delivered under budget versus using a standard bid.”
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King & King Considers Multiple Users and Unique Location 

Swan Library enjoys 62,000 annual visits or 170 daily visitors through its large Victorian doors. Books are only one draw for patrons and guests. Users of all ages and abilities are utilizing reference and collection materials, office services (faxing, copying, scanning, printing), on-line computer technology, and informal and formal public meeting space. King & King Architects of Syracuse, NY has been charged with designing a facility that will accommo­date and enhance these current uses, as well as keep pace with expected global changes in library use and advances in technology. Working closely with library staff, the architects’ immediate hurdles include park­ing, interior and exterior accessibility, overcrowding, security and maintenance which are significant barri­ers to efficient and effective use at Swan’s present location.   

“The Swan Library design has evolved from the clear vision and goals established by the trustees and Building Committee,” said Kirk Narburgh, partner of King & King Architects. “That design includes locat­ing the building to serve as a gateway into downtown, using materials and details to compli­ment village landmarks, and creating a uniquely sus­tainable structure that will withstand the test of time.”

The new library, as designed to date, will be 14,600 square feet or double the current size. Parking will expand beyond the current five spaces to as much as 73 spaces, which includes four handicap slots positioned close to the building entrance. Creating one main entrance into the new, single story facil­ity will improve access and egress for those using wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, strollers or other specialized equipment. Increased square footage will create wider aisles and open spaces which will improve traffic flow, orienting and directing the public to different parts of the library. Endeavoring to be a destination not just a clearinghouse for books and information, more room will be dedicated to providing adequate, comfortable seating, space for workstations and exhibits, non-book collections, and meeting rooms. Specific features under consideration for the new Swan Library are as follows:

▷ Tutor room
▷ Interactive children’s area to enhance story time and craft activities. It will feature im­proved visibility and access for children and their caregivers, and have its own restroom facilities.
▷ Teen area with study tables, comfortable chairs, and display space for artwork and posters.
▷ Local history/genealogy room for family history research.
▷ Archive room for storage of vital records and valuable collections when not on display.
▷ Café area
▷ Flexible meeting/community space with move­able partitions allowing three
meetings or programs to be conducted simultaneously, or used for one large event with capacity for up to 100 patrons. This multi-purpose, community space will be accessible outside of library hours, optimizing the library’s capacity to be a local gathering space.  

Improved Security and Staffing Efficiency

Reducing the number of entrances from three to one in the new facility will increase the security of library materials and patrons. A service-only entrance into the staff area will enable deliveries to be made quickly and quietly. Given the prominent location of the circulation desk, patrons and guests should be able to gauge quickly where to locate assistance, while giving staff clear sight lines between public space and workrooms.

Interior and Exterior Design to Improve Energy Efficiency

“This is clearly a unique building for the Albion community that has a sustainable focus at the core of the design,” said King & King’s Kirk Narburgh.  “Overall the pre­liminary energy modeling indicates that the new facility will utilize less energy (gas/ electric) than the current library which is half the size.  Most zoning and planning codes have been in place for the past 40 to 50 years, so municipalities across the country are dealing with the changing landscape concerning building sustainability at all levels.  In most jurisdictions there’s not a whole lot of experience with these new building systems and sustainable designs, so not every situation is going to be black-and-white when it comes to compliance.   Both the library and the village are trying to achieve a successful project.  This is a situation we’re running into all over and becomes part of the process.” 

The new library building is oriented to the south to take advantage of passive solar gain that will provide free heating, day lighting and views for all to enjoy. Clerestory win­dows high in the rafters will light the back half of the building during the day and will be operable to allow for natural ventilation. The HVAC design utilizes a displacement ventilation system that is extremely energy efficient and quiet for a library setting. Finishes throughout the design will utilize recycled materials and provide a clean indoor environment.

Swan Library Selects Architect for New Facility Design

(January 15, 2010 – Albion, NY) King & King Architects LLP of Syracuse, NY has been selected by the Swan Library Board of Trustees to design a new, single story library.  The proposed facility will be constructed at the former Dale’s Supermarket site on Main Street in the Village of Albion.  The firm is the oldest architectural firm in New York State, and specializes in education and healthcare fields.

“We are extremely pleased with the level of enthusiasm and experience that King & King brings to the table,” said Kevin Doherty, President of the Swan Library Board of Trustees.  “Our building committee, chaired by Eric Brown, has done an outstanding job narrowing the field of qualified candidates through extensive interviews and research.  I believe with King & King’s focus on Upstate New York development, that they will represent our interests well.” 

King & King has four partners, Pete King, Jim King, Dave Johnson, and Kirk Narburgh, that bring an average of twenty-nine years of professional experience to the table.  They are assisted by a staff of over 70 members.  Kirk Narburgh, who will lead the Swan project, is a 1982 graduate of Albion High School and has been the chief designer on a number of projects for the local school district over the past 15 years.  In the Syracuse area, King & King has designed Crouse College, Bird Library, and Manley Field House, all on the Syracuse University campus; the Onondaga County Courthouse; Niagara Mohawk; The Galleries of Syracuse; and the Greater Syracuse Chamber of Commerce.  King & King also has design experience in K through 12 schools, colleges and universities, and New York medical centers.  King & King are strong proponents of sustainable design. They have 18 LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) accredited professionals on staff.  Since 1998, the LEED® Green Building Rating System has set the standards for environmentally sustainable construction. Green buildings are known for their energy conserving practices, overall lower operating costs, and healthier working environments.  King & King is presently pursuing LEED® certification on several projects including the Special Events Recreation Center at SUNY Brockport.

In the spring of 2009 a 15-member volunteer advisory group recommended the Dale’s property to the Library Board of Trustees over a second Main Street location.  They indicated the size of the proposed facility should range between 12,000 and 14,000 square feet depending on overall costs of construction.  The library has budgeted $2.2 million for the building project.  This size is consistent with local libraries within the region, and should keep pace with future needs.

Swan Library is a community resource for free and low cost information, technology, local history and entertainment that services approximately 7,000 cardholders, residents of the Albion Central School district, and guests.  For the past 100 years the library’s home has been the 4-story Burrows’ mansion located in downtown Albion.

Contact: 
Susan Rudnicky
585/589-4246 or
srudn@nioga.org

Moving Forward with a Firm Plan for the Future 

(Albion, New York – January 5, 2010)  The Swan Library Board of Trustees is the proud new owner of Main Street property in the Village of Albion.  The walls and roof of the 35,000 square foot former Dales’ Supermarket were demolished in late October according to terms of the purchase offer with the Pilon family.  All that remains at the site is a brand new sign reading: “Future Home of Swan Library.”  

The 50-year old Dale’s facility was favorably received in a fall 2008 feasibility study by community members and by a 15-member volunteer advisory committee this past spring given its location, availability of parking, and vacant status.  Because of its excessive size, need for significant renovations, and ongoing maintenance issues, the Swan Board of Trustees favored construction of a new single-story facility at the site.  A 12,000 to 15,000 square foot library will sit near the present footprint to avoid covering buried utility lines and other infrastructure.  

Architect Selection 

Waterport apple producer Eric Brown is spearheading the library’s building committee.  Brown was instrumental in the relocation and construction of the Orleans County Cooperative Extension education center at the Route 31 fairgrounds.  Beginning with a list of six architects, the group hopes to make a final selection by early January.   

Financing 

The total cost of the project is estimated to be less than $3.1 million.  The Library Board is prepared to use grants, proceeds from a community capital campaign, and current library assets in combination with a commercial long term mortgage to cover expenses.  Albion Mayor Dean Theodorakos is overseeing the library finance committee, and has already made overtures to USDA for loan and grant opportunities.   

“We’ve had a vision for a new library for years,” said Kevin Doherty, President of the Swan Library Board of Trustees. “In fact we researched over 40 sites within the village over the past decade.  With the purchase of the Dale’s site and the assistance of community leaders, staff, and numerous volunteers, we now have a solid, workable plan in place.  For our 6,200 card holders, loyal users and guests, 2010 promises to be an exciting year for Swan Library.  Stay tuned to our progress!” 
 

(December 11, 2009) Saint-Gobain Technical Fabrics America, Inc. based in Albion, NY has made a financial contribution to Swan Library.  The library is preparing for a capital campaign in 2010 to support new construction at the former Main Street location of Dale’s Supermarket in the Village of Albion.  

“As we gear up for this monumental effort in the history of the library, we are excited that Saint-Gobain would take the initiative to support us for the first time,” said Kevin Doherty, Chairman of the Swan Library Board of Trustees.  “To realize our vision of a new, single story library, with improved accessibility for all ages of users, we need to be aggressive in reaching out to all community members including area business and industry.  We are extremely pleased that Saint-Gobain is sensitive to our need and has stepped forward as a community leader.” 

With branches in 55 countries, Saint-Gobain Technical Fabrics’ (SGTF) parent company, Saint-Gobain, was founded in 1665. It has a presence in 55 countries worldwide. Working with leading companies in several business sectors, Saint-Gobain has emerged as the world’s largest building materials firm.  In Albion, the manufacturer specializes in reinforcement fabrics including fiberglass, jute fabrics, polyester fabrics, polyester fibers, polypropylene fabrics, and fabric reinforcement roofing repair. 

“An investment in our libraries is an investment in our future,” said Mike Heburn, Director of Manufacturing, Saint-Gobain Technical Fabrics, Americas.  “They play an important role in educating our youth and enriching our communities."  

A formal closing on the Dale’s property is expected shortly between Swan Library and the Pilon family.  According to terms of the purchase agreement, the supermarket was razed in November to make room for a smaller, single story library that will double the size of the current library.  The total cost of the project is estimated to be less than $3.1 million.  The 160-year old Burrows’ mansion, which presently houses Swan Library and its collections on three floors, will be retained to allow an orderly transition to the new facility.  It will potentially provide both storage and programming space in the future.  The Library Board is prepared to use grants, proceeds from a community capital campaign, and current library assets in combination with a commercial long term mortgage to cover expenses.  

Swan Library services approximately 6,200 cardholders, residents of the Albion Central School district, and guests.  In 2008, 306 concerts, lectures, workshops, discussions, and other adult and children’s programs were conducted at the library.  It also provides computer access and internet capabilities to users in addition to a large collection of local historical resources, printed materials, DVDs and CDs for educational and entertainment purposes.

Swan Library Supporters Gather To Celebrate Purchase of New Location

(October 25, 2009 – Albion, NY) With volunteers, friends, staff and board members fondly looking on, Swan Library of Albion, NY is officially celebrating the signing of the purchase offer for the former Dale’s Supermarket on Main Street in Albion on Sunday, October 25th at the library.  “This day has been a long time in coming,” says Kevin Doherty, Chairman of the Swan Library Board of Trustees.  “It’s time to celebrate this important milestone in realizing our vision of a new library and to personally thank the many people who are making it happen with their overwhelming contributions of time and professional expertise.”

The purchase agreement was finalized on Wednesday, October 14th with the Pilon family and library leadership coming to terms after months of negotiations.  Asbestos removal,   demolition and environmental remediation are included in the contract and will be undertaken before the library assumes ownership.  Closing on the property is expected in November.  A new, but smaller facility will replace the grocery store, originally constructed in the 1950s, but still double the size of the current Swan Library.

The invitation-only event will take place from 3 to 5pm, Sunday, October 25th at Swan Library, located on 4 North Main Street in Albion.  Light refreshments and tours will precede a formal program at 3:45pm.  Kevin Doherty and Dick Remley, Campaign Chair for the new library, will officiate.  A formal signing of the purchase offer agreement with both parties represented will also be recreated.

Swan Library services approximately 6,200 cardholders, residents of the Albion Central School district, and guests.  In 2008, 306 concerts, lectures, workshops, discussions, and other adult and children’s programs were conducted at the library.  It also provides computer access and internet capabilities to users in addition to a large collection of local historical resources, printed materials, DVDs and CDs for educational and entertainment purposes.

Moving Forward with a Firm Plan for the Future

(Albion, New York – June 25, 2009)  The Swan Library Board of Directors is moving forward with a firm plan to relocate the library to another Main Street location within the village of Albion.  In this most recent step, the Board has authorized a purchase offer for the acquisition of the former Dales’ Supermarket, a 35,000 square foot facility.  The building, originally constructed in 1960 as a W.T. Grant Department Store, will be razed by the present owners to make way for a single story, new library.  The supermarket, owned and operated by the Pilon family, was shuttered in 2007. 

This spring a 15-member volunteer advisory group recommended the Dales’ property to the Library Board of Directors over a second Main Street location.  The size of the new library will range between 12,000 and 15,000 square feet depending on overall costs of construction.  The 160-year old Burrow’s mansion, which presently houses Swan Library and its collections on three floors, will be retained to allow an orderly transition to the new facility, and potentially provide both storage and programming space in the future.

The total cost of the project is estimated to be less than $3.1 million.  The Library Board is prepared to use grants, proceeds from a community capital campaign, and current library assets in combination with a commercial long term mortgage to cover expenses.

A fall 2008 feasibility study surveying 45 community leaders confirmed that overcrowded aisles and workspace, limited parking and accessibility issues have discouraged local library users for years, and consideration should strongly be given to improving present operating conditions.  The Dale’s facility was also favorably received given its location, availability of parking, and vacant status.

“We’ve had a vision for a new library for years, but with the assistance of community leaders and numerous volunteers, we now have a solid, workable plan in place,” says Kevin Doherty, President of the Library Board of Directors.  “This strategy is easily achievable, and our current users – including over 6,200 card holders - and visitors will experience a huge jump in the quality and quantity of library services, collections and resources.”

If and when the purchase offer of $450,000 is accepted, the Library Board will formally approve the purchase.  This will begin the timetable for demolition and clean-up.  Bidding for construction of the new library is not expected until spring of 2010.

News Release
Swan Library
As Per March 13, 2009

Swan Library Moves Forward with Future Plan

(Albion, New York – March 13, 2009)  A 15-member advisory committee has presented a third-party building recommendation to the Swan Library Board of Trustees.  As a result, volunteers are one step closer to realizing a new facility to replace the current library – now over 100 years old - located on Main Street in Albion.  A Fall 2008 feasibility study surveying 45 community leaders confirmed that overcrowded aisles and workspace, limited parking and accessibility issues have discouraged local library users for years, and consideration should be strongly given to improving present operating conditions. 

Charged with identifying the most appropriate building and construction plan, the committee analyzed present library space, reviewed all previous site proposals with cost projections, and investigated peer libraries in the region.  Their analysis suggested that a new facility of approximately 12,500 square feet is the most appropriate size based on current and expected needs, and public and private funding sources.  This recommendation reduces previous cost projections by roughly $2 million.  The group also suggested that a new facility be located on Main Street, and that the current library be retained as a local history resource center. 

“I am exited about this recommendation,” says Kevin Doherty, President of the Swan Library Board of Trustees.  “This is the closest we’ve been to establishing a firm action plan in the twenty years of exploring the library’s future.  My hat is off to the members of the committee who’ve worked diligently to crunch the numbers and ask the difficult questions to make this recommendation air tight.  They’ve certainly served the community well, and local residents should be confident that the concept now on the table is the most cost effective and efficient to service local library needs now and in the future.”  

To maintain progress, the Swan Library Board of Trustees has directed the Advisory Committee to select from two options the final location of a new Main Street library, and provide detailed construction cost estimates.  Doherty expects a fully developed proposal with action timeline in April. 

As building specifics are finalized, funding sources for the proposed $3 to $3.5 million facility are being analyzed by local leaders.  The library plan has been included on a list of projects submitted at the request of Governor Paterson and the State Education Department for consideration of funding under provisions of the Federal Stimulus Package which was recently enacted.  The project was submitted on behalf of the Swan Library Board by the NIOGA Library System, the regional cooperative organization which represents Western New York's' libraries and coordinates their activities.   According to Doherty, it is unclear at this time period whether library projects will ultimately be funded by the State using stimulus funds. 

Members of the Swan Library Advisory Committee include Alan Worgo, Lisa Misiak, Mike McFarland, Pat Shelp, Roger LaMont, Wil Harris, Karen Sawicz, Kevin Doherty, Lynne Philipps, Dan Monacelli, Mario Belgiorno, Donna Wolcott, Dick Remley, Ken Braunbach and Susan Bourke.  Meeting every two weeks since mid-November 2008, the group is a diverse mix of library volunteers, community members, and individuals with construction, business and library operations experience.

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