Public Can View Plans for Library
Preliminary plans for a new Encino-Tarzana Branch Library will be unveiled this week.
Next summer, the existing 5,400-square-foot facility will be demolished to make way for a one-story, 12,000-square-foot library that will include a special area for children and young adults, a multipurpose meeting room and multimedia computer work stations that will be connected to the Internet.
The new library is expected to open in the fall of 2002. The $3-million project is one of 12 in the San Fernando Valley funded by Prop. DD, a 1998 library bond issue.
Local residents previously expressed concerns about a proposal to create more parking spaces by using the alley behind the library, said Fontayne Holmes, director of the library facilities division. Plans have since been reworked to provide a 38-space lot while keeping the alley intact. Also, a right-hand turn lane from Nestle Avenue to Ventura Boulevard will be added to help traffic flow.
“I think the community should be pleased with the plans,” Holmes said. “We listened to what they said, and I think we addressed their concerns.”
Library officials say nearby libraries will have sufficient staff and additional materials available to accommodate Encino-Tarzana patrons during the construction period.
The meeting is scheduled Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the Encino-Tarzana Branch Library, 18231 Ventura Blvd. Los Angeles City Councilwoman Cindy Miscikowski is expected to attend.
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