In the Guts of the Old Main...
The story so far…
On May 7, 2006 the Lakewood Public Library celebrated 90 years of service with the groundbreaking for a new facility designed by Robert A.M Stern Architects.
To make way for the expansion, both the old Realty One building and the Children's and Youth Services annex were demolished. And while the rest of the Old Main remained open for business, a wholly new structure took shape under the guidance of Panzica Construction.
The new wing opened to the public in July of 2007 and the Old Main was shut down for a major renovation. While everyone admired the beauty of the new expansion, the job was still only half done.
Which brings us to December 5, 2007. With the Old Main thoroughly gutted, Joe Sprinzl, of Panzica Construction took Electronic Services Manager John Guscott and our cameraman on a tour of the Library’s past and future as seen in concrete and steel…
…in the guts of the Old Main.
This program is now available on DVD!
Just ask at the Circulation Desk.
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
Bonus Groundbreaking Celebration
Installation of the Richard Haas Murals
For More Great Library Videos, visit our page at
For now, enjoy some of our favorites below...
TRADITIONAL CHICAGO BLUES:
Wallace Coleman with DC Carnes
Self-taught harmonica player, Wallace Coleman, traveled the world for ten years with Robert Lockwood Junior’s legendary band, then hit the road with his own group, playing every major blues festival in the United States. On October 14, 2007, the Living Blues Award winner packed the New Lakewood Public Library Auditorium with special guest DC Carnes.
For more stories and songs, including three videos not seen on TV, visit our YouTube channel.
www.YouTube.com/wgolpl
STREETCAR:
A Film
by Jasper Wood (1955)
A rare treat for film-lovers
and local history enthusiasts alike! Relive the last days of the streetcar
in Cleveland with this lyrical, avant-garde film completed shortly after
they were gone forever. Catch a glimpse of Cleveland in the 1950s and
witness people from all walks of life rubbing shoulders in cramped cars
as seen through the lens of acclaimed local photographer Jasper Wood.
See our YouTube channel for a lecture
on the artist, the film itself, and more!
