The new library is beginning to be defined with perimeter foundations, the addition of steel columns and beams and placing the concrete slab for the main floor. Weather conditions have allowed the workers to set the last 100 yards of concrete on the south so the remaining slab on grade was completed last week. Conduits for power and internet and heating and cooling ducts are in place for the basement and first floor.
92% of the second floor deck is in place. Welding continues on the second level. Each of the tall steel columns weigh approximately 1,800 lbs. It is a visual treat to watch crane operators and construction crews working in tandem to set columns and stabilize them with the supporting beams.
Last Friday, the crane began moving in roof supports and crews will begin to arrange for the concrete that will become the second level on the east side. Libraries require extra shoring due to the highly compacted weight of the books on their shelving. A typical office building may require a load limit of 50 lbs per square foot where a library requires 150 lbs. per square foot.
Architectural drawings are shown in the Library and Civic Center lobbies.
