Library Board Signs Contract with Bialosky Cleveland Architects

Shaker Heights Public Library Board has unanimously selected Bialosky Cleveland as the architects for the design of the Main Library renovation project. Over the course of their history, Bialosky Cleveland has designed diverse projects throughout the city. Most recently they worked closely with the City of Shaker Heights on the master planning and design for the new Van Aken District. The Library worked with Bialosky Cleveland in 1991, when it expanded its Bertram Woods Branch to include a children’s wing and a basement.

According to Library Director Amy Switzer, “As one of the Midwest’s leading design firms, Bialosky Cleveland has extensive experience with public libraries and renovations of historic buildings. We were impressed by their reputation for collaboration in the design process and robust community engagement.”

The design process for the Main Library begins in June, with construction anticipated to start in 2020. The Bertram Woods Branch will be renovated after the Main Library. Opportunities for community input will occur early in the process for each project. Goals for the Main Library Renovation are to create:

• New welcoming spaces for library users of all ages that support community-oriented programs
• Student-friendly spaces for collaboration and study groups
• Flexible meeting rooms that support the latest technology
• Updated and accessible computer center on the first floor
• Comfortable and flexible seating options that can be reconfigured to adapt to meet a variety of needs and privacy requirements.

These renovation features, along with the enhanced services and programs they will facilitate, are designed to create an engaging and welcoming environment for the community.

For more information and to follow the renovation process, visit: https://shakerlibrary.org/about-us/renovations/

Main Library Building History

Originally built as an elementary school in 1926 and closed in 1987, the Library Board agreed to renovate the Moreland School Building in 1991, with the City retaining ownership of the building. The renovated Library opened on August 30, 1993.

A successful 1996-school-library bond issue enabled the Library to renovate a portion of its second floor. These renovations were completed in in 1998, and included a Teen Center, Computer Center, Meeting Rooms, and an Art Wall. A successful 2004 joint school-library bond issue enabled the Library to replace its 80-year old slate roof and complete second floor renovations in 2011.