Library waterproofing will require tree removal

This large oak on the west side of the Coventry Village Library (in this photo from 2015) is one of the trees that will be removed.

Built in 1926, Heights Libraries Coventry Village Branch is the first and oldest Heights Libraries building. Committed to maintaining and improving the building, Heights Libraries, over the past three years, has invested in both the exterior and interior, undertaking an extensive tuck-pointing project, and a redesign and expansion of the children’s area.

The latest improvement project for the building will be a full waterproofing of the foundation on all sides. In order to complete this project, two large oak trees and a number of smaller trees will have to be removed.

“It is very hard to part with these beautiful oaks,” said Nancy Levin, Heights Libraries director. “Cleveland Heights is known for its beautiful tree canopy—but saving the historic building from pervasive moisture is also very important. Our Coventry branch has stood for nearly 100 years, and we want it to last 100 more.

“The timing of the tree removal will depend on the weather, and could be delayed as late as spring 2020, but we wanted to make sure our community knew, in case it happens sooner.

“The oaks tower over the library on the Coventry Road side, and we agree that they are very majestic,” commented Levin. “When the project is complete, new trees will be planted and landscaping will be replaced all around the building.

A representative of VanCuren Tree Services, the contractor, said the company repurposes trees for mulch, wood chips, and firewood.

After the waterproofing is complete, the Heights Libraries plans to renovate the lower level of the building by adding meeting rooms, a kitchenette, and other amenities that will allow the building to be even more useful to community members.

Sheryl Banks

Sheryl Banks is the communications manager for the Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library System.

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Volume 12, Issue 12, Posted 12:03 PM, 11.19.2019