Norfolk's Kirn Library still open for business - for now

NORFOLK

Kirn Memorial Library remains open because of delays in renovation work at its temporary replacement across the street at the historic Seaboard building.

While the goal was to close Kirn on Monday, officials warned it was possible that the schedule could slip.

Library director Norman Maas said that Kirn will now close "sometime in December." The library must clear out of the building by the end of the month so demolition can begin to make way for a light-rail station.

The plan is to open Seaboard, at the corner of Plume and Atlantic streets, with limited service the day after Kirn closes. It will be known as the Norfolk Main Library.

Kirn patrons now can check out materials from the first floor fiction, nonfiction and movie collections, and return books.

Once Seaboard opens, only the basement will be available at first with access to 60 computers. Patrons also will be able to return books or request books, and have them delivered from storage in one or two business days.

The Norfolk Main Library should be fully operational in January or February and services will be phased in as renovations to the three other floors are done, Maas said.

During the transition, residents are urged to use the library's 11 branches.

In the next four years, Seaboard will undergo a $50 million expansion to become the main library's permanent home, thanks in part to a $20 million donation from Frank Batten Sr., the retired chairman of Landmark Communications Inc., now Landmark Media Enterprises LLC, which publishes The Virginian-Pilot.

The city will build a three-story facility adjacent to Seaboard, a structure built in 1900 that once served as City Hall. A recessed glass atrium will join the two buildings.

Debbie Messina, (757) 446-2588, debbie.messina@pilotonline.com