Work Begins On $1.7M Coventry Library Renovations

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — Crews broke ground on the $1.7 million renovation of the Heights Libraries' Coventry branch this week.

Work will include renovations to the basement and staff offices and installation of a new HVAC system. The Coventry branch is nearly 100-years-old.

“These updates will expand the services we can provide in the Coventry neighborhood,” said Heights Libraries Director Nancy Levin. “Our basement will be turned into a large, multipurpose meeting room with AV technology, and a new makerspace.”

Albert M. Higley Construction won the design-build contract in July 2021. The firm has been working with Robert P. Madison International, a Cleveland-based architecture firm, to design the renovations.

Some asbestos abatement has already been completed in the building, and crews have already replaced some plumbing to avoid flooding during heavy rains. Crews will also add a new main floor restroom, a lactation room, a new elevator and upgrade the electrical infrastructure.

Library officials said the project will expand the space in the Coventry branch and allow the library to offer more public programming for adults and children, and allow for more space for group meetings.

“My staff and I can’t wait to welcome the community into these new spaces,” said Coventry Branch Manager Maggie Kinney. “Having a large meeting room on the lower level, and a restroom on the main floor will support our accessibility initiatives — which can be tricky in an almost 100-year-old building.”

The Coventry branch will remain open during the construction. Work should be completed in July 2022.

“We're also really looking forward to being able to support the community with innovative programming in the makerspace," Kinney added. "We're already thinking about what we can accomplish with life skills programs such as cooking, living healthy lifestyles, sewing, going green, and financial wellness. We're really looking forward to partnering with local organizations and experts to bring this to life!”