Birmingham, Ala. (June 23, 2014) — After extensive planning, the Athens-Limestone Public Library renovation project has begun construction. This project involves the conversion of an abandoned Kroger grocery store building into a versatile community facility. The building incorporates a public library, rentable large meeting room, rentable small meeting room, computer lab, coffee and snack area, used bookstore, and modern features like access to public computers and wireless internet.
MLIS Director of the Athens-Limestone Public Library, Paula Laurita, is enthusiastic, stating that “working with CMH is a pleasure. They listen to our vision, designing for our strengths and our unique needs, not just following trends. Together we are creating a community gathering place.” In addition to this collaborative and innovative design, the preliminary cost estimates for the project have come in under budget, a longtime hallmark of CMH projects.
The revitalized structure utilizes sustainable design principles through energy-efficient light fixtures and conditioning equipment, low-flow toilet fixtures, shaded glazing on the southern and western exposures, and complete building reuse, among other features. Construction of the phase-two interior portion of the project is currently underway with a building completion date estimated for fall of 2014.