With the concept of a main library building renovation coming up, the Great Neck Library's board of trustees heard a preliminary engineering inspection report at the board's April 13 meeting. Library Director Christine Salita reviewed the report that architect Todd Harvey had recently presented to the main building's ''ad hoc'' committee on April 12.

Ms. Salita noted first that the report explains that the material and equipment used in the construction of the main building 30 years ago were then ''top-of-the-line,'' and have functioned with only minor adjustments. However, at this point in time, ''as to be expected...many components are in need of repair, upgrade, or replacement.'' As well, codes have changed significantly over time (especially regarding fire alarm systems and ADA accessibility), energy efficiency standards have changed radically, and lighting requirements have changed as well.

Ms. Salita reported that three engineers issued this preliminary report---an engineer specializing in plumbing, one specializing in electrical work, and an environmental engineer.

The list of necessary work, though not in any prioritized order, begins with the need for replacement of concrete walkways and replacement of the plaza area. The walkways and the plaza are very ''weathered and worn.'' And this is considered a safety issue.

The library's exterior lighting is below the level considered necessary for a safe nighttime environment. At this point, the present exterior lighting fixtures are ''more architectural than functional.''

There is some concern over the actual main building. The building is a steel frame structure with hung pre-cast concrete and a stone/masonry veneer. While the stone is in good condition, the concrete has deteriorated. The soffits show water damage, and the steel lintels over the windows are separating from the building. Work on the building will be made easier, ''more flexible,'' because, being a steel frame building, all of the weight is carried by the columns (placed every 20 feet), and, thus, the interior walls are not weight-bearing. This will make interior redesign much simpler. However, Ms. Salita noted that moving the elevator shaft or the stairwells would be very expensive.

As for insulation, the insulation level in the building is low, and, as a result, there are great energy inefficiencies. As well, the insulation is not up to current code. Ms. Salita explained that, 30 years ago, when energy was relatively inexpensive, the insulation was just fine.

The windows in the main building need replacement. The current windows are predominantly single glaze, without an insulating factor. New, thermal pane windows would be the best for energy efficiency and for climate control.

The roof, too, needs to be replaced. Besides being under-insulated, the pitch of the roof is wrong at this time (probably due to settling), and there has been ponding. Ponding can cause the roof to sag in spots, with the result being water damage. According to reports that Ms. Salita received, the roof should have lasted 12 to 15 years, and the 30-year span is a ''testament to the quality.''

Interior lighting is also dated and not energy efficient. Direct lighting is currently being used throughout the building, and this is especially difficult for computer areas. The recommendation is for indirect lighting, making it easier on the eyes and better for work with computers.

Air-conditioning, too, is a problem. The ''constant air'' air-conditioning system in the main building needs to be replaced by one of ''variable air volume.'' Also, the system needs to be zoned for climate control. Currently there is basically ''one giant zone.'' In addition, the air delivery must be through a system of ducts. The current system relies on ceiling tile holes for the air to pass through, and this reduces the quality of the air and is also inefficient. Ducts, and regular cleaning of the ducts, is the way to go with air-conditioning.

Along these lines, the control system for heat and air-conditioning needs replacement too. The current control system for both is the old pneumatic type, and it should be replaced by a system of digital computer controls with programmable thermostats.

The 11-year-old boiler is working fine and has a life expectancy of 35 to 40 years. However, it rests on a platform used for the first boiler and that platform is too small for the newer boiler. As a result, boiler coils have cracked. The platform needs to be extended to accommodate this newer boiler that has a larger footprint.

The current electrical service in the main building appears to be adequate, but the circuit panels are old and ''utilized to the maximum.'' The panels should be replaced and an additional panel should be added for the possibility of new circuit breakers in the future. The wiring is in good condition and contained in a metal conduit.

However, the fire alarm system does not meet current code requirements and needs to be replaced. The current system is just an auditory system. Also for fire protection, there is a recommendation for a sprinkler system. This should be done in zones.

The engineers' report also noted evidence of asbestos in some areas of the building (in pipe fittings). While this asbestos is not ''friable'' (dangerous) now, with construction coming up, there will need to be asbestos abatement.

There is some problem concerning the water system in the building. At this time there are no local water control valves. These must be installed. Water zones are necessary.

Restrooms must be addressed too. First, it was also noted that the restroom exhaust fan system needs replacement. Plus, all of the main building's restrooms must be upgraded to fully conform to ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) requirements. Basically, current restroom doors are too narrow. And, as a result, if enlarging the doors and making larger restrooms cuts out one restroom, there is the possibility of adding another restroom. Ms. Salita's presentation also broached the idea of ''generic'' restrooms, to help alleviate the congestion in the ladies rooms.

Again, upon finishing the review of the preliminary report, Ms. Salita stressed that the Great Neck Library's main building on Bayview Avenue was ''built well 30 years ago,'' with top quality materials, but now it is time to upgrade, update, repair, replace, and renovate.