Berkeley, California
The North Branch of the Berkeley Public Library was originally constructed in 1936, and is considered a local historic landmark. This project consisted of the full architectural renovation of the historic library spaces, the seismic strengthening of the existing structure, and the construction of a new 2-story addition at the rear of the library. Seismic strengthening of the existing building included anchorage of the concrete bearing walls and rotunda to the floor and roof, and plywood strengthening of the floor and roof diaphragms. Demolition of two room extensions behind the existing library building allowed for construction of the new 2-story addition, which consisted of concrete bearing walls and wood floor and roof framing. The existing building was also underpinned to allow for construction of the lower level of the addition.
