HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-04-23; Library Board of Trustees; 02; Schulman Auditorium Capital Improvement Project updateApril 23, 2025 Item #2 Page 1 of 2
Meeting Date: April 23, 2025
To: Library Board of Trustees
From: Thomas Johnston, Programs & Venues Coordinator
Staff Contact: Thomas Johnston, Programs & Venues Coordinator
thomas.johnston@carlsbadca.gov or 442-339-2093
Subject: Schulman Auditorium Capital Improvement Project update
District: All
Recommended Action
Receive an update to the Ruby G. Schulman Auditorium Capital Improvement Project.
Executive Summary
As part of the fiscal year 2022 Capital Improvement Program, a project was initiated to enhance
the audiovisual system in the Ruby G. Schulman Auditorium and upgrade technology and
finishes in the William D. Cannon Art Gallery at the Carlsbad City Library on Dove Lane. Design
work began in August 2022 and was completed by November 2022. However, due to funding
constraints and cost considerations, the scope was adjusted to prioritize the Schulman
Auditorium, deferring improvements to the Cannon Art Gallery and Ann Kulchin Courtyard.
Explanation & Analysis
The Ruby G. Schulman Auditorium, a 215-seat venue on the Carlsbad City Library campus, has
been a cornerstone for cultural and community events since its construction in 1999. Over the
years, it has undergone several upgrades, including lighting and audio improvements in 2005
and 2008 and a more extensive renovation in 2017 to enhance accessibility and seating.
On January 9, 2024, the City Council approved plans for the Schulman Auditorium Audiovisual
Update Project (Resolution No. 2024-002) and authorized the bidding process. Following the
receipt of three bids on February 21, 2024, the City Council awarded the contract on May 7,
2024 (Resolution No. 2024-088). A Notice to Proceed was issued on June 14, 2024, for the
contractor to begin the work.
The latest audiovisual upgrades are now complete—on time and within budget. The new
technology has been installed, and Library & Cultural Arts staff have received training. These
enhancements, including upgraded lighting and sound board, video system improvements, and
LED stage and house lighting, will elevate audience experiences and enhance rental appeal.
With a more user-friendly and high-quality setup, the Schulman Auditorium is well-positioned
to continue serving as a premier venue for performances, lectures, and community gatherings.
LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
April 23, 2025 ` Item #2 Page 2 of 2
A community celebration was held on Saturday, March 29 with a public reception in the Ann
Kulchin Courtyard sponsored by the Carlsbad Library & Arts Foundation followed by a
performance featuring The Camarada Tango Quartet in the auditorium. Approximately 180
people attended the event. In addition to enriching cultural and community programming, the
renovated auditorium will now be equipped to serve as an alternate venue for City Council
meetings when needed.
Community Engagement
None.
Fiscal Analysis
This project is currently funded from the Infrastructure Replacement and Maintenance fund, in
the amount not to exceed $2, 222, 222, with no additional funding requested at this time.
Next Steps
None.
Environmental Evaluation
The proposed action is not a “project” as defined by CEQA Section 21065 and CEQA Guidelines
Section 15378(b)(5) and does not require environment review under CEQA Guidelines Section
15060(c)(3) and 15061(b)(3), because the proposed action to report on the Ruby G. Schulman
Auditorium is an organizational or administrative government activity that does not involve any
commitment to any specific project which may result in a potentially significant physical impact
on the environment. Any subsequent action or direction stemming from the proposed action
may require preparation of an environmental document in accordance with CEQA or CEQA
Guidelines.
Exhibits
None.
Ruby G. Schulman Auditorium
Capital Improvement Project
Thomas Johnston, Programs & Venues Coordinator
Library & Cultural Arts Department
April 23, 2025
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TODAY’S PRESENTATION
•Overview
•Timeline of Project
•Project Improvements
•Next Steps
ITEM 2: SCHULMAN AUDITORIUM UPDATE
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OVERVIEW
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•Opened in 1999
•Physical upgrades in 2016
•Audio/visual upgrades
•Approval and scope changed in 2022
•Project started 2024
PROJECT TIMELINE
August 2022
Initial design work started
November 2022
Design work completed
May 2024
City Council awarded contract
January 2024
City Council approval
June 2024
Notice to Proceed
February 2025
Contractor inspections
July 2024
Demolition and upgrade
March 29, 2025
Reopening Celebration
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UPGRADES
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•Lighting
•Audio
•Visual
Upgraded lighting board
LIGHTING UPGRADES
LED lighting fixtures
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Upgraded sound board
Improved sound system
Microphones and assisted listening
Wi-fi compatible assisted listening
AUDIO ENHANCEMENTS
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Video system upgrades
System control transition
VIDEO & SYSTEM CONTROL
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RENOVATION CELEBRATION
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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS: APRIL 19, 2025
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COMING SOON
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SATURDAY, MAY 24, 2025
SCHULMAN AUDITORIUM
FRONT ROW SATURDAY
5 P.M. CURTAIN
Kūhai Hālau O ʻIlima Pā ʻŌlapa Kahiko
Dance Troupe
NEXT STEPS
•FINAL INSPECTIONS
•STAFF TRAINING ON NEW EQUIPMENT
•BUILDING TURNOVER
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ITEM 2: SCHULMAN AUDITORIUM UPDATE
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WELCOME BACK!