Facade work that just started on the Denver Public Library’s main branch will replace all the caulking on each panel adorning the iconic building over the course of four years.
Work began July 31 to replace the more than 27 miles of sealant and caulking and will be done in phases in the four years at a cost of $1.2 million.
The city will pay $300,000 per year for the project using capital improvement funds. The first phase of construction will take place on the south corner of the building at 13th Avenue and Broadway, but the work will not affect access for library patrons. The project will be stretched out as to not exceed $300,000 each year.
“The Denver Central Library is the visible face of our library system and has become a beloved jewel of downtown Denver,” city librarian Michelle Jeske said in a statement. “Preserving its beauty and utility for generations to come is extremely important to us.”
The main branch building opened in 1995 and received notoriety for its post-modern design by architect Michael Graves.
Denver Public Library spokesman Chris Henning said the work is mostly preventative and that the building’s original sealant had a 20-year guarantee.
“It’s just starting to show some minor cracks and deterioration,” Henning said. “Nothing has happened internally.”
Joe Vaccarelli: 303-954-2396, jvaccarelli@denverpost.com or
