Last night, the Halton Hills Public Library Board received an incredible donation from the Georgetown Homecoming Committee in the amount of $79,271! The Library Board and staff were absolutely delighted and completely overwhelmed by the amount raised by this hardworking corps of volunteers. Early in their planning process, the Homecoming Committee advised the Library Board that any proceeds from the Georgetown Homecoming event would be used to support the Georgetown Branch Renovation/Expansion. We know that there are many causes in this community worthy of support, and the Board and staff were extremely grateful that the Homecoming Committee chose the Georgetown Branch for their project. The staff were hoping to receive some money to add a few enhancements to the local history area planned for the expanded branch. Now with $79,000+, we can dream big! The Georgetown Branch Planning Committee will be meeting with members of the Homecoming Committee to explore ways in which this money could be put to good use. One of the things that the Homecoming Committee would like to see is some space in the new Georgetown Branch dedicated to 'memorializing' this amazing event which attracted Georgetownians from around the world.
Our most sincere and heartfelt thanks to the Homecoming Committee!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
New Furnishings and Equipment to Come!
On Monday, December 10th, the Town of Halton Hills' Council approved $150,000 for the replacement of dysfunctional and outdated furnishings and equipment as part of a short term improvement plan for the Georgetown Branch. In addition, the Library received approval for $25,000 to add comfortable chairs, tables and task lamps to the Gallery. This will expand the quiet reading space options in the Georgetown Branch, which are currently quite limited. We hope to begin purchasing early in 2008 so that patrons can begin to enjoy these enhancements soon.
We are very appreciative of Council's support of these upgrades which will address the immediate need for improved furnishings and equipment.
On Monday, December 10th, the Town of Halton Hills' Council approved $150,000 for the replacement of dysfunctional and outdated furnishings and equipment as part of a short term improvement plan for the Georgetown Branch. In addition, the Library received approval for $25,000 to add comfortable chairs, tables and task lamps to the Gallery. This will expand the quiet reading space options in the Georgetown Branch, which are currently quite limited. We hope to begin purchasing early in 2008 so that patrons can begin to enjoy these enhancements soon.
We are very appreciative of Council's support of these upgrades which will address the immediate need for improved furnishings and equipment.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Short Term Improvements Being Explored for Georgetown Branch
In a letter to Council, the Board outlined various ways in which funds for short term improvements could be utilized:
-Replacing outdated/shabby furnishings and equipment
-Refurbishing the Gallery to create quiet reading areas (e.g. seating clusters)
-Continuing with light planning exercises to resolve known challenges (e.g., the behind-the stage and loading dock areas)
In addition to the above, the Board suggested that the architect seek the necessary variances from the Committee of Adjustment based on the conceptual plans produced to date. This would allow sufficient time to review and resolve any problems.
Finally, although the Board believes that there are limitations in the structural changes that could be made in the short term, the Board requested that serious consideration be given to expanding the Library operationally, i.e., to revisit Monday openings.
The Board recently received a response in which they were asked to provide a costing for these suggested improvements. Staff are in the process of identifying costs and expect to have a report to Council before year-end.
Any questions? Please contact me at diamantij@hhpl.on.ca.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Disappointing Decision--
On Monday, September 10th, the Halton Hills Public Library Board presented the Georgetown Branch Renovation/Expansion Project report during a special meeting of Council. This extensive report confirmed the feasibility of the project and included the conceptual designs and the estimated costs associated with the project.
Despite approval of the project in principle, the Board and staff are deeply disappointed by Council’s decision to put the project “on hold” until funding can be confirmed. The Library Board certainly appreciates that time is needed to receive and consider the construction costs of the Fire Stations, and to determine the availability of water for future residential development. Nonetheless, the Library Board and staff are very concerned that the Georgetown Branch cannot continue to serve this community effectively without the much needed space. Given widely used guidelines for public libraries and the current population of the Georgetown Branch service area, the building should be more than twice the size.
The Board, staff and users of the Georgetown Branch were looking forward to the many improvements reflected in the conceptual plans-- increased space for all collections, an accessible and easy-to-navigate arrangement, a larger and better appointed programming area for children, more seating and study choices, better containment of sound, and more generous space for the entrance and lobby areas.
As per Council’s resolution, there is no time frame attached to this delay. The Library Board will be seeking clarification around timing so that they can begin planning around either a short or long term deferral. The Library Board also intends to review the implications for the project should the delay exceed one year, including a potential escalation of costs.
On a positive note, Council will be considering funds for immediate improvements to the Georgetown Branch, recognizing that the delay may in fact be significant. The amount and timing for the receipt of these funds has yet to be determined.
The Library Board will use the extra time to continue to work with stakeholders to resolve design challenges, upgrade existing furniture and equipment destined for the new Branch, and explore options for a temporary location during the construction phase.
Residents are encouraged share their questions/concerns with Jay Jackson, Chair of the Halton Hills Public Library Board. This can be done through my blog, through my e-mail at diamantij@hhpl.on.ca.
On Monday, September 10th, the Halton Hills Public Library Board presented the Georgetown Branch Renovation/Expansion Project report during a special meeting of Council. This extensive report confirmed the feasibility of the project and included the conceptual designs and the estimated costs associated with the project.
Despite approval of the project in principle, the Board and staff are deeply disappointed by Council’s decision to put the project “on hold” until funding can be confirmed. The Library Board certainly appreciates that time is needed to receive and consider the construction costs of the Fire Stations, and to determine the availability of water for future residential development. Nonetheless, the Library Board and staff are very concerned that the Georgetown Branch cannot continue to serve this community effectively without the much needed space. Given widely used guidelines for public libraries and the current population of the Georgetown Branch service area, the building should be more than twice the size.
The Board, staff and users of the Georgetown Branch were looking forward to the many improvements reflected in the conceptual plans-- increased space for all collections, an accessible and easy-to-navigate arrangement, a larger and better appointed programming area for children, more seating and study choices, better containment of sound, and more generous space for the entrance and lobby areas.
As per Council’s resolution, there is no time frame attached to this delay. The Library Board will be seeking clarification around timing so that they can begin planning around either a short or long term deferral. The Library Board also intends to review the implications for the project should the delay exceed one year, including a potential escalation of costs.
On a positive note, Council will be considering funds for immediate improvements to the Georgetown Branch, recognizing that the delay may in fact be significant. The amount and timing for the receipt of these funds has yet to be determined.
The Library Board will use the extra time to continue to work with stakeholders to resolve design challenges, upgrade existing furniture and equipment destined for the new Branch, and explore options for a temporary location during the construction phase.
Residents are encouraged share their questions/concerns with Jay Jackson, Chair of the Halton Hills Public Library Board. This can be done through my blog, through my e-mail at diamantij@hhpl.on.ca.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
September 10th will be an very important date for the Halton Hills Public Library! On that date, the Library Board and the architects will be speaking to a report submitted to Council on the Georgetown Branch Project. The 29+ page report outlines the many improvements expected with the renovation/expansion, the estimated costs, and other associated issues including the need for a temporary location during the construction phase. Also attached to the report are the latest conceptual drawings which will soon be posted on the web site. The Board Chair (Jay Jackson), the Chair of the Georgetown Branch Planning Committee (Sheila Taylor) and I will be there to respond to questions.
Just to remind you, these are the kinds of improvements that will result from this project:
Just to remind you, these are the kinds of improvements that will result from this project:
- Space that meets public library guidelines for the population served
- A 'look’ that complements and integrates well with the historic features of the Church and reflects the features of the surrounding residential neighbourhood
- A floor plan that is easy to navigate (less fragmented) and accessible to all users
- A larger entrance and lobby area, where congestion typically occurs
- A more visible and enticing entrance from the street and beyond, along with large marquis signage to announce upcoming events/activities
- Much more space for all collections; lots of display opportunities to encourage discovery
- Use of environmentally-friendly technology at every opportunity
- Improved noise containment within the Library and between the Library and Cultural Centre
- Increased natural light and the circulation of fresh air; more seating by windows
- More seating and study area choices, including conversation and small group meeting spaces
- Self check to make it convenient for busy people to use the Library
- Better positioning of elevators
- Easy access to popular areas such as Children's and Youth Services
- Greater separation between Adult and Children's/Youth Services
- A larger, sound proof children’s programming area
- More space for Internet stations
- A good sized, better appointed area for teens
- Space to highlight and access resources reflecting our cultural history
- Improved space for storing/displaying special materials (e.g. art collections and local history resources)
- A welcoming feel; a sense of belonging for everyone
- More space for people to linger, relax, converse, enjoy refreshments
- A more visible Gallery with greater cross-over use by the Library
- More public washrooms, including family washrooms
- Sufficient space for staff; more efficient arrangement of staff offices
- Better designed loading dock area
- A Library that is "the hub and showcase of the community"
As expressed by the Board, staff and many patrons, this is a much needed, long awaited upgrade to the Georgetown Branch Library and we strongly encourage you to demonstrate your support by coming to this meeting on September 10th.
Any questions? Please contact me at diamantij@hhpl.on.ca.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
The Library Board and staff were extremely pleased with the press coverage of the public forum on the Georgetown Branch Project to be found in the July 11th edition of The Independent and Free Press. The summary of the expected improvements was excellent. We also appreciated the inclusion of a front elevation concept, and the preliminary site plan (although the shades of gray were hard to distinguish in the site plan). It was terrific to have the article appear on page 3, and to read additional positive comments on the editorial page.
However, there were a couple of errors that I wanted to take this opportunity to correct. The first error is to be found in the main article on page 3, which states: "the expansion will force the closure of the Cultural Centre, including the theatre and gallery, for at least a year, said Knox, as the budget will not realistically allow it to be open at the same time as the construction". In fact, it is not the budget which is necessitating the closure--it is the magnitude of the renovation and expansion work, and the need to protect the health and safety of patrons, and to safeguard collections, furnishings and equipment during the construction phase. Moreover, having the Library and Cultural Centre operate off-site will allow construction to proceed more efficiently.
The second error can be found on at the end of the page 3 article, which states, "Halton Hills council has scheduled a special meeting on Monday, Sept. 10 to approve the final design and cost estimates". The designs presented to Council will be the conceptual series, and not the final designs.
Finally, in the "Fast Facts" section, there is a reference to "the potential for an additional level of about 3,500 sq. ft.". No drawings showing a possible third level were shown at the public forum. The latest information from the architect suggests that we can accommodate a third level of approximately 2,100 sq. ft.
As per usual, we welcome any comments and feedback on this project. Feel free to respond via this blog.
However, there were a couple of errors that I wanted to take this opportunity to correct. The first error is to be found in the main article on page 3, which states: "the expansion will force the closure of the Cultural Centre, including the theatre and gallery, for at least a year, said Knox, as the budget will not realistically allow it to be open at the same time as the construction". In fact, it is not the budget which is necessitating the closure--it is the magnitude of the renovation and expansion work, and the need to protect the health and safety of patrons, and to safeguard collections, furnishings and equipment during the construction phase. Moreover, having the Library and Cultural Centre operate off-site will allow construction to proceed more efficiently.
The second error can be found on at the end of the page 3 article, which states, "Halton Hills council has scheduled a special meeting on Monday, Sept. 10 to approve the final design and cost estimates". The designs presented to Council will be the conceptual series, and not the final designs.
Finally, in the "Fast Facts" section, there is a reference to "the potential for an additional level of about 3,500 sq. ft.". No drawings showing a possible third level were shown at the public forum. The latest information from the architect suggests that we can accommodate a third level of approximately 2,100 sq. ft.
As per usual, we welcome any comments and feedback on this project. Feel free to respond via this blog.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Georgetown Branch Project: Concept Plans Unveiled!
On Wednesday June 13th, architects John Knox and Stephen Blood revealed the concept plans for the renovated/expanded Georgetown Branch. Over 60 people were in attendance, and many were very supportive of the design direction. People seemed particularly pleased with how well the expansion integrates with the historical architecture of the Church. We did receive several questions around the entrance, the concept for the south-facing elevation, and whether this will be a ‘green building’. There were also concerns expressed about parking. With regard to the entrance, the architect explained how it would be a generous space at street level, and that a large elevator is available upon entering. As to the second question about south elevations, the architect has since produced some drawings which will be available on the website shortly. In answer to the question around building green, the architect indicated that the principles outlined in the “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System” will be incorporated wherever possible. As to parking, the audience was reminded of two new parking lots to come—one at the intersection of Main Street S. and Church Street, and one on Edith Street.
Everyone is encouraged to view the concept drawings on display in the branches or on the Library’s website at: http://www.library.hhpl.on.ca/. You can submit comments electronically or through paper forms available through the branches
On Wednesday June 13th, architects John Knox and Stephen Blood revealed the concept plans for the renovated/expanded Georgetown Branch. Over 60 people were in attendance, and many were very supportive of the design direction. People seemed particularly pleased with how well the expansion integrates with the historical architecture of the Church. We did receive several questions around the entrance, the concept for the south-facing elevation, and whether this will be a ‘green building’. There were also concerns expressed about parking. With regard to the entrance, the architect explained how it would be a generous space at street level, and that a large elevator is available upon entering. As to the second question about south elevations, the architect has since produced some drawings which will be available on the website shortly. In answer to the question around building green, the architect indicated that the principles outlined in the “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System” will be incorporated wherever possible. As to parking, the audience was reminded of two new parking lots to come—one at the intersection of Main Street S. and Church Street, and one on Edith Street.
Everyone is encouraged to view the concept drawings on display in the branches or on the Library’s website at: http://www.library.hhpl.on.ca/. You can submit comments electronically or through paper forms available through the branches
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Two weeks ago, I attended an outstanding Canadian Library Association Conference. The theme was "Retain, Recruit, Restructure: Regenerating the Library Community". One of the sessions focused on the regeneration of a very drab, shabby, outdated public library. The session was called “Mildly Delirious Libraries: Recreating Your Library From Top to Bottom”, and was presented by the West Palm Beach Library staff and their interior designer, Peter Robinson. It was about the radical transformation of the West Palm Beach Library and how staff used the G.A.S.P. approach to revitalize it. G.A.S.P. stands for “Graphics”, “Ambiance”, “Style” and “Presentation”. Concentrating on these four attributes, the West Palm Beach P.L. staff were able to create a look that was cohesive, incredibly creative, and relatively inexpensive. The outcomes from this makeover were truly astounding. In an 8 year time frame (the period during which all these changes were taking place), circulation went up almost 300%, visits rose by 228%, the number of cardholders jumped 500% and because of all this increased usage and appreciation, their budget went up 250%! If you want more details on this exciting project, check out the West Palm Beach P.L. web site at: www.wpbpl.com. Click on “Mildly Delirious Libraries”.
What West Palm Beach Public Library has experienced is common to many public libraries who invest in upgrades. People are enticed by beautiful spaces, and want to stay when they discover that these spaces can also support a wide range of user needs from research and quiet reading to serendipitous discovery and conversation.
What West Palm Beach Public Library has experienced is common to many public libraries who invest in upgrades. People are enticed by beautiful spaces, and want to stay when they discover that these spaces can also support a wide range of user needs from research and quiet reading to serendipitous discovery and conversation.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
1. Who is responsible for this project?
The Halton Hills Public Library Board is ultimately responsible for the Georgetown Branch Renovation/Expansion project. However, the Board has delegated responsibility for overseeing the details of this project to the Georgetown Branch Planning Committee. The Committee is comprised of members of the Library Board, senior Library and Town staff, and the architects of Chamberlain Architect Services Ltd. The public will also be consulted at key points in the design process. Together those responsible for the project will ensure that the new Georgetown Branch is functional, accessible, attractive, and that it complements the historic features of the church.
2. What will the project cost?
I have received a number of queries about the cost of this project. Accurate cost estimates will not be available until the design is finalized. These costs will be presented to the Library Board and Council before construction commences. The budget approved by Council as part of their Library Facilities Financing presentation in January 2006 is $8 million.
The Halton Hills Public Library Board is ultimately responsible for the Georgetown Branch Renovation/Expansion project. However, the Board has delegated responsibility for overseeing the details of this project to the Georgetown Branch Planning Committee. The Committee is comprised of members of the Library Board, senior Library and Town staff, and the architects of Chamberlain Architect Services Ltd. The public will also be consulted at key points in the design process. Together those responsible for the project will ensure that the new Georgetown Branch is functional, accessible, attractive, and that it complements the historic features of the church.
2. What will the project cost?
I have received a number of queries about the cost of this project. Accurate cost estimates will not be available until the design is finalized. These costs will be presented to the Library Board and Council before construction commences. The budget approved by Council as part of their Library Facilities Financing presentation in January 2006 is $8 million.
Monday, May 14, 2007
1. Where do I find more background on the Georgetown Branch Project?
For access to key background documents, e.g., the Facility/Site Study, please go to this page on the Library's web site:
http://www.library.hhpl.on.ca/FacilityStudy.asp
If you are looking for more information on the latest trends in public library design, you might consult this recent article entitled: "How to Make Your Library Great", which can be found at:
http://www.pps.org/info/newsletter/april2007/library_attributes
For access to key background documents, e.g., the Facility/Site Study, please go to this page on the Library's web site:
http://www.library.hhpl.on.ca/FacilityStudy.asp
If you are looking for more information on the latest trends in public library design, you might consult this recent article entitled: "How to Make Your Library Great", which can be found at:
http://www.pps.org/info/newsletter/april2007/library_attributes
Monday, May 7, 2007
1. What features will you be looking to add/change?
The architects are in the process of developing some conceptual designs, which they will present to the public on Wednesday, June 13th, 2007, Gellert Centre (Kinsmen Hall) 7:00 p.m. Below are some of the ideas offered by staff:
· increase the amount of space in the lobby and entrance area and make it more visible
·create a layout that is more accessible for wheelchair users, and people with strollers
·have much more space for all collections while avoiding use of very low and high shelves
· incorporate environmentally friendly technology at every opportunity
· maximize the natural light
· decrease the sound that travels
· offer more seating/study choices, including conversation spaces
· provide a larger, sound proof children’s programming area
· make it convenient for busy people to use the library (e.g., self-checkout, self check-in,) Note: wireless will be introduced this year
· improve space for storing/displaying special materials (local history resources; art collections)
·provide more Internet stations
·have a floor plan/signage that makes it easy to find what you need
·install good lighting throughout
·ensure that both the outside and inside ’look’ complement and integrate well with the historic features of the church
The architect will be considering these ideas and the many other ideas arising from the public surveys, and recent consultation sessions with Town Council, Town Department Heads, community leaders, and the Library Board.
2. What are the timelines?
As mentioned, there will be a public meeting on June 13th to view and respond to the architects’ conceptual drawings. After this public meeting, the architects will be bringing the preferred drawings to the Board for their approval. Drawings approved by the Board and their associated cost estimates will then be presented to Council. It is expected that this will happen in the early fall.
For the remainder of 2007 and part of 2008, the architects and staff will be developing and refining the design. Actual construction is slated to begin mid-2008. Construction will continue for most of 2009, with the new Georgetown Branch opening in early 2010.
3. How can the public participate in this process?
The public is always welcome to submit suggestions/questions to my attention. However, I would also recommend that anyone interested come to the public consultation session scheduled for Wednesday, June 13th, Gellert Centre (Kinsmen Hall), 7 p.m. No pre-registration required. Everyone is welcome. You will get a chance to meet the architects, Mr. John Knox and Mr. Stephen Blood, to see their conceptual drawings, and to ask questions.
The architects are in the process of developing some conceptual designs, which they will present to the public on Wednesday, June 13th, 2007, Gellert Centre (Kinsmen Hall) 7:00 p.m. Below are some of the ideas offered by staff:
· increase the amount of space in the lobby and entrance area and make it more visible
·create a layout that is more accessible for wheelchair users, and people with strollers
·have much more space for all collections while avoiding use of very low and high shelves
· incorporate environmentally friendly technology at every opportunity
· maximize the natural light
· decrease the sound that travels
· offer more seating/study choices, including conversation spaces
· provide a larger, sound proof children’s programming area
· make it convenient for busy people to use the library (e.g., self-checkout, self check-in,) Note: wireless will be introduced this year
· improve space for storing/displaying special materials (local history resources; art collections)
·provide more Internet stations
·have a floor plan/signage that makes it easy to find what you need
·install good lighting throughout
·ensure that both the outside and inside ’look’ complement and integrate well with the historic features of the church
The architect will be considering these ideas and the many other ideas arising from the public surveys, and recent consultation sessions with Town Council, Town Department Heads, community leaders, and the Library Board.
2. What are the timelines?
As mentioned, there will be a public meeting on June 13th to view and respond to the architects’ conceptual drawings. After this public meeting, the architects will be bringing the preferred drawings to the Board for their approval. Drawings approved by the Board and their associated cost estimates will then be presented to Council. It is expected that this will happen in the early fall.
For the remainder of 2007 and part of 2008, the architects and staff will be developing and refining the design. Actual construction is slated to begin mid-2008. Construction will continue for most of 2009, with the new Georgetown Branch opening in early 2010.
3. How can the public participate in this process?
The public is always welcome to submit suggestions/questions to my attention. However, I would also recommend that anyone interested come to the public consultation session scheduled for Wednesday, June 13th, Gellert Centre (Kinsmen Hall), 7 p.m. No pre-registration required. Everyone is welcome. You will get a chance to meet the architects, Mr. John Knox and Mr. Stephen Blood, to see their conceptual drawings, and to ask questions.
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
1. Where are you expanding? What areas will be affected in this expansion/renovation?
In 2006, the Town acquired the property immediately to the south of the Library. This enabled the Library to consider a significant expansion at the current location. The existing branch structure and those spaces shared with the Cultural Centre will be extensively renovated and constructed so as to integrate well with the new addition. Shared spaces with the Cultural Centre include the entrance, the lobby, the public washrooms and the loading dock area.
2. Who is doing the design? What is their background?
The Halton Hills Public Library Board has contracted with Chamberlain Architect Services Ltd. for design and engineering services. Chamberlain has considerable experience with public library construction--in the last 10 years, they have built 8 public libraries across Ontario, several of which required the integration of historic buildings. We are proud to be associated with such a well-regarded architectural firm, which has won three awards for their public library designs. The senior staff, and members of the Board are also heavily involved in the project through a planning committee, and will ensure that the new Georgetown Branch is functional, accessible, attractive, and that it complements the historic features of the church.
In 2006, the Town acquired the property immediately to the south of the Library. This enabled the Library to consider a significant expansion at the current location. The existing branch structure and those spaces shared with the Cultural Centre will be extensively renovated and constructed so as to integrate well with the new addition. Shared spaces with the Cultural Centre include the entrance, the lobby, the public washrooms and the loading dock area.
2. Who is doing the design? What is their background?
The Halton Hills Public Library Board has contracted with Chamberlain Architect Services Ltd. for design and engineering services. Chamberlain has considerable experience with public library construction--in the last 10 years, they have built 8 public libraries across Ontario, several of which required the integration of historic buildings. We are proud to be associated with such a well-regarded architectural firm, which has won three awards for their public library designs. The senior staff, and members of the Board are also heavily involved in the project through a planning committee, and will ensure that the new Georgetown Branch is functional, accessible, attractive, and that it complements the historic features of the church.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Hi there,
My name is Jane Diamanti, and I’m the Director of the Halton Hills Public Library. I have started this blog to talk about the Georgetown Branch Renovation and Expansion project as it evolves, and more importantly, to provide an on-line forum for sharing ideas about this new facility.
I thought I would begin with answers to some frequently asked questions. Feel free to post your own questions, or to add your comments on this project. This is a very exciting time in the long and illustrious history of the Halton Hills Public Library, and we look forward to involving the public in this project as much as possible.
1. Why do we need to renovate/expand the current Georgetown Branch?
The Facility/Site Study done in October 2005, revealed many deficiencies in the existing Georgetown Branch. The most critical is the severe shortage of space for the population now served. Using the well established and widely used standard of .6 square feet per capita, the branch should be close to 22,000 square feet, or almost twice the current size. This space shortage will only worsen with the projected population growth. Based on the population projections provided by Halton Region, it is estimated that we will need 33,000 square feet of library space for the Georgetown area by 2021. The planned extension to Georgetown Branch will add almost 14,000 square feet, bringing the total square footage close to 26,000 square feet. Although it may not be enough to address the population in 14 years, it will certainly allow us to house more material, offer a reasonable amount of quiet reading and study space, better meet the demand for Internet stations, and offer adequate space for our programs.
In addition to the space deficiency, we hope to address ongoing problems with noise containment and infrastructure issues such as poor wiring and ventilation.
We know that patrons are also supportive of this expansion. In several recent surveys, patrons have confirmed that they simply want more of what we are currently offering, e.g., bigger collections. At this time, we cannot add any more material; our shelves are jam-packed! We can only add to our collections if we have a larger facility.
2. Is the Halton Hills Public Library busy enough to warrant a new, larger facility?
Statistics from the last three years indicate that library use has increased dramatically in all areas including borrowing, questions asked and programs attended. Since 2003, circulation has jumped 39%, and attendance at children’s programs has increased 27%. Patrons also come to us for reference service, which is also up 10%. Some of this increase is attributed to growth, but the year-on-year increase in circulation is considerably greater than the annual population increases. This suggests to us that new residents are discovering the many benefits of library service, and longer term residents are using and enjoying the library more. We fully expect this upward trend to continue.
My name is Jane Diamanti, and I’m the Director of the Halton Hills Public Library. I have started this blog to talk about the Georgetown Branch Renovation and Expansion project as it evolves, and more importantly, to provide an on-line forum for sharing ideas about this new facility.
I thought I would begin with answers to some frequently asked questions. Feel free to post your own questions, or to add your comments on this project. This is a very exciting time in the long and illustrious history of the Halton Hills Public Library, and we look forward to involving the public in this project as much as possible.
1. Why do we need to renovate/expand the current Georgetown Branch?
The Facility/Site Study done in October 2005, revealed many deficiencies in the existing Georgetown Branch. The most critical is the severe shortage of space for the population now served. Using the well established and widely used standard of .6 square feet per capita, the branch should be close to 22,000 square feet, or almost twice the current size. This space shortage will only worsen with the projected population growth. Based on the population projections provided by Halton Region, it is estimated that we will need 33,000 square feet of library space for the Georgetown area by 2021. The planned extension to Georgetown Branch will add almost 14,000 square feet, bringing the total square footage close to 26,000 square feet. Although it may not be enough to address the population in 14 years, it will certainly allow us to house more material, offer a reasonable amount of quiet reading and study space, better meet the demand for Internet stations, and offer adequate space for our programs.
In addition to the space deficiency, we hope to address ongoing problems with noise containment and infrastructure issues such as poor wiring and ventilation.
We know that patrons are also supportive of this expansion. In several recent surveys, patrons have confirmed that they simply want more of what we are currently offering, e.g., bigger collections. At this time, we cannot add any more material; our shelves are jam-packed! We can only add to our collections if we have a larger facility.
2. Is the Halton Hills Public Library busy enough to warrant a new, larger facility?
Statistics from the last three years indicate that library use has increased dramatically in all areas including borrowing, questions asked and programs attended. Since 2003, circulation has jumped 39%, and attendance at children’s programs has increased 27%. Patrons also come to us for reference service, which is also up 10%. Some of this increase is attributed to growth, but the year-on-year increase in circulation is considerably greater than the annual population increases. This suggests to us that new residents are discovering the many benefits of library service, and longer term residents are using and enjoying the library more. We fully expect this upward trend to continue.
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