This week Ann Arbor will close its Traverwood Branch of the Ann Arbor Public Library for the refinishing of the wooden floor there.
Traverwood Library, Ann Arbor.
Earlier in the week the library was closed and will remain so until the 23 of February. The relatively new library building, constructed in 2008, had it’s lobby constructed from dead ash trees that were removed during the construction of the building. This approach to sustainability is the driving force behind the unusual close-down.
Library Director Josie Parker indicated some of the reasons for the shut down and pointed out how the library intends always use the most sustainable means to keep the library in shape. Due to high traffic in the lobby area the wood here has come to need repair and refinishing sooner than expected. Finishes used in the initial construction are not holding up to all of the wear and tear, but Ms. Parker remains faithful.
“We could simply throw all caution to the wind and finish the floor like a basketball court, but that seems shortsighted and unjustified.” Parker reiterated Ann Arbor’s desire to continue repairing the library in the most responsible fashion. She added that the whole project would include sanding, repairs and refinishing.
The repairs are estimated to cost between 10,000 and 12,000 dollars. This is the second time that repairs have been made to this part of the library since it opened. Δ John Fenton
