THE BUILDING PROJECT: The $4 million construction project began in April 2009. The new John J. Bach Branch Library opened its doors to the public on May 10, 2010. A grand opening celebration for the entire community was held on May 15, 2010. The project manager was the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York. The architect was Hom & Goldman of New York City. The builder was Sano-Rubin Construction of Albany.

THE NEW LIBRARY: The 8,500-square-foot Bach Branch Library is a contemporary and inviting addition to the neighborhood. The glass-walled rotunda lets in plenty of natural light and sweeping views of New Scotland Avenue. Two walls of windows at the rear of the building showcase the backyard Story Garden and grove of old-growth black walnut trees. The open-space floor plan includes separate areas for adults, teens, and children, as well as a community meeting room, and two study rooms. The library has 16 public access computers, in addition to free Wi-Fi internet access. The library houses a collection of 30,000 items for customers of all ages, including books, DVDs, music CDs, audio books, and more. This branch was built using “green” design and construction principles, systems, and products, and boasts a state-of-the-art geothermal heating and cooling system. The Bach Branch is projected to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) silver certification. The building was named in memory of John J. Bach, a longtime library trustee and New Scotland neighborhood resident who spent his career as a teacher, principal, and superintendent at Albany’s public schools.