The renovation got underway in April, signaled by a change in traffic flow on Congress and Elm Streets with striping and concrete barriers. New pedestrian walkways and vehicle pathways were also created. Now the glass curtainwall and facade work on our building’s exterior can begin in May.

April was also when the interior of the Library became a full-fledged construction zone. Demolition of ducts and walls got underway on the Lower Level in the former Youth Services Library and Audio/ Video Area, on the Main floor, and at the Triangle (an infill area on the 3rd floor in Technical Services). Construction on the 3rd floor to infill the open triangle also began. Temporary dust walls were installed by the glass skylight at the North elevation (skylight facing Marginal Way).

Demolition work continued into early May. In addition, new work began on the "overhang" of Level 4 that abuts Room 316, as well as some work in the courtyard.

The official commencement of construction was celebrated on Thursday, May 7, 2009, with a Groundbreaking Ceremony. The event marks a new chapter for Portland Public Library as its main branch on Monument Square undergoes a significant 43,300 SF renovation. Speakers at the Ceremony included Morris Fisher, President, Board of Trustees; Nick Mavodones, Jr., Portland City Councilor and former Mayor; Scott Simons, Principal, Scott Simons Architects; and Steve Podgajny, Executive Director, Portland Public Library.

> Morris Fisher speaking, Nick Mavodones

Following the remarks Library project representatives broke ground to honor the occasion: Peter Barnard, President, Ledgewood Construction; Taffy Field, former President, Board of Trustees; Joe Gray, City Manager, City of Portland; Morris Fisher, President, Board of Trustees; Nick Mavodones, City Councilor and former Mayor; Scott Simons, Principal, Scott Simons Architects; and Steve Podgajny, Executive Director, Portland Public Library.