Groundbreaking
Norfolk Embarks on Main Library for Future Generations
NORFOLK- The time has come to write a new chapter in Norfolk's history; to build a new library joining contemporary and historic architecture with state-of-the-art technology. The Colonel Samuel L. Slover Memorial Main Library, a place where communities gather, people learn and visitors stop to admire the most complex structure in Southeast Virginia.
On Thursday, April 26, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. at 235 East Plume Street, Mayor Paul D. Fraim, members of City Council, Norfolk Public Library, the Batten Family and the Slover Library Foundation will celebrate a partnership and begin a journey. Following the groundbreaking, step inside the 112-year-old Seaboard Building to experience exciting things to come, including a glimpse of touch-screen technology.
The $64 million dollar project is the result of a generous $40 million dollar donation from the Batten Family. Hampton Roads citizens raised an additional $4 million dollars to meet the requirements of The Batten Challenge. The City of Norfolk contributed $20 million dollars. Fundraising for the Slover Technology Reserve Fund continues to ensure the library puts the high-speed world of information access at resident's fingertips.
The City awarded Archer Western Contractors the bid to construct Slover. Construction begins summer 2012 and completion scheduled for late 2014.
