Restoration plan for Carnegie library amid safety concerns
REPAIRS are set to be carried out at Woodside Library to ensure “public safety”.
One of the city’s Carnegie libraries, the B-listed property, which was built in 1905, has “deteriorated significantly” over the years.
Glasgow Life, which runs the library on behalf of the council, has submitted a planning application requesting permission to restore the building, including replacing its glazed dome.
The dome structure has “deteriorated significantly over the years due to water penetration”, a planning report reveals.
“The glazing is warped and cracked due to movement, the timber mullions have rotted and the supporting steel structure is delaminating with the dome and cowl sitting visibly ‘off level’.
“Additionally sections of plasterwork have become dislodged and have fallen from height into the library space below.
“This area has therefore been closed to the public for safety reasons.
“It is considered that the existing dome is beyond economic repair and it is proposed that this is removed and the construction stripped back to the steel structure and the rooflight replaced.”
Work will include strengthening the supporting steelwork and forming a new ‘crown’ piece to replace the current chandelier support, which will be displayed in the library. The chandelier will be removed for refurbishment and reinstated.
Any dry rot discovered will be treated, the ornate plasterwork will be reinstated to match the existing design and the interior of the dome will also be re-decorated in a colour scheme to match the existing one. The St Georges Road library is one of seven in the city designed by architect James Robert Rhind and built after money was donated by Andrew Carnegie.
The planning report states: “The proposed dome replacement is in line with a number of both the city council’s and Glasgow Life’s objectives including a commitment to improving library environments, ensuring the public’s welfare and safety and ensuring that resources are made best use of. The dome’s replacement will also help to maintain the building’s legacy and use into the future.”
Recently, Glasgow City Council revealed another Carnegie library, in Parkhead, could become a drama and performance space.