Empowering Dreams, Embracing Knowledge
The North East Branch Library represents a shared vision that has evolved into a cultural and educational landmark. For over a decade, the North East, Maryland community has envisioned a public library that could cater to the entire county, providing access to state-of-the-art learning resources, technology, and communal spaces. This vision was brought to life following a highly community-centric design process that involved thousands of participants and a persistent, strategic effort to garner political and financial support. The library stands as a testament to the power of shared dreams and the significant impact libraries can have on cultural and educational landscapes.
A Hub of Inspiration and Innovation
From the spacious parking lot that accommodates 100 vehicles to the eco-friendly bike parking option, Cecil County Public Library strives to be a space for everyone. Collaborating seamlessly with Wohlsen Construction, the Cecil County Public Library is thoughtfully equipped with amenities that cater to diverse interests. When you first step into the library, you are greeted with a stunning lobby and reception area. The library’s commitment to functionality and comfort is evident in its features, which include a convenient book drop-off window, an inter-library book transfer area, and a tranquil reading room with a cozy gas fireplace.
However, the library is more than just a collection of books. The journey through the Cecil County Public Library unfolds into an array of spaces designed to meet the community’s evolving needs. The library offers ten meticulously designed study and co-working rooms for those seeking collaborative endeavors and creative inspiration. It also houses administrative offices, outdoor spaces for educational programming, and meeting spaces with a cutting-edge technology suite. Innovation is nurtured in the library’s entrepreneurial center, and creativity is sparked in the state-of-the-art digital media lab, complete with a sound booth and recording studio.
Construction Amidst a Pandemic
Several months after construction began, the world was tipped on its axis by a global pandemic. This illness brought numerous restrictions and challenges to the Wohlsen team. The team diligently adjusted protocols and implemented safety measures to ensure a safe job site, including a daily checklist, site sign-ins, mask inspections, social distancing, frequent cleanings, and an on-site nurse. The pandemic also led to substantial delays in materials, affecting key project elements like the monumental staircase, glass panels, exterior panels, light fixtures, and flooring. The team worked together to reassess the schedule and determine the best path forward, ensuring project completion despite these challenges. In the face of a global health crisis, our dedicated team at Wohlsen Construction illustrated unwavering resilience and adaptability on the Cecil County Public Library North East Branch project.
Staircase Standstill
Every construction venture brings unique challenges, and the Cecil County Public Library North East Branch project was no stranger to these hurdles. A significant setback arose during the installation of the monumental stair, which experienced an unexpected six-week delay in delivery. This delay posed a substantial challenge, as it necessitated the closure of the main entrance. In response to this unforeseen delay, the construction team demonstrated ingenuity by keeping the main entrance open to accommodate the stair’s delivery. To maintain progress during these six weeks, temporary partitions were swiftly erected, effectively enclosing the entire front main entrance until the monumental stair could be installed. Despite these challenges, the Wohlsen team completed the project within the original time frame through careful planning and unwavering commitment. As a result, the Cecil County Public Library’s North East Branch stands as a community hub, serving the community in learning and collaboration for generations to come.
