Madrona-Sally Goldmark Branch History
In 1971, local activist Sally Goldmark worked with the Library to open an informal reading center for children called the Book-tique. It operated for three months.
When Fire Station No. 12 closed in late 1971, Goldmark again worked with the Library to rent and remodel the building to serve as a library. The Station House Branch opened Feb. 8, 1973, and was renamed the Madrona-Sally Goldmark Branch in 1985 after Goldmark's death.
Madrona-Sally Goldmark Branch 2008 Renovation
The branch originally opened in a converted firehouse in 1973. It is heavily used by area residents and schoolchildren. The building was upgraded in 1986 at a cost of $84,854, but problems remained with its layout, program and work areas, and electrical and ventilation systems.
The renovated branch now has:
- updated book collection
- new seating
- upgraded technology services and equipment
- better electrical, communication and computer connections
- more efficient circulation desk and work areas
- improved ventilation
- a modern mechanical system
Quick Facts
- Project type: Renovate existing branch
- Completion date: 2008
- Budget for capital costs: $893,000
- Total library program area: 1,707 square feet
- Computers: 9 (formerly 6)
- Artist: Mary Iverson, Monad Elohim
- Art budget: $7,416
- Library Board steward: Michael Parham
- Architect: Heliotrope Architects
- Contractor: Cope Construction Co.
Milestones
- May 2008: The renovated Madrona-Sally Goldmark Branch of The Seattle Public Library reopened at noon Saturday, May 10.
- November 2007: The Seattle Public Library board of trustees selected an oil painting by Mary Iverson and a ceramic sculpture by Monad Elohim to display in the renovated branch. Both are Seattle artists.
- August 2007: Construction began on the branch renovation.
- June 2007: The branch closed for renovation on Saturday, June 16.
- May 2007: The Library Board voted to award the construction contract to the sole bidder, Cope Construction Co., after the Library and the contractor negotiated a better price than Cope's original bid. Cope worked with its subcontractors to achieve savings.
- April 2007: Construction bids for the branch renovation came in higher than expected.
- November 2006: Residents were invited to an open house to see the design of the interior renovation of the branch.
- September 2006: Residents attended an open house to see the design of the interior renovation.
- April 2006: The Seattle Public Library board of trustees authorized the architects to adapt the Library's Universal Building Program to better reflect usage patterns for the Madrona-Sally Goldmark Branch. The board agreed the branch should emphasize materials for children, popular fiction, DVDs, and space for holds pick-up.
- January 2006: The Library Board selected Heliotrope Architects to design the interior renovations