Space Planning and the Digital Age
Several people have asked me recently about the need for a larger library in view of the increasing digitization of materials. Yes, the advent of e-books and e-readers is having an impact on how people access material. E-readers seemed to be a very popular gift this season. However, accessing reading material through digital devices does not necessarily spell the death knell for the paper book. In talking to people of all ages, from 'digital natives' to 'digital immigrants', the traditional printed book is still preferred by many, even those who own a digital device. The great thing about your public library is that it freely offers an array of formats from print and large print to e-books, DVDs, and audiobooks and people can choose for themselves which format suits them best.
We are planning for approximately 21,000 square feet of extra space for Georgetown Branch. Over time, it's possible that the space we are allocating for book stacks today may be re-purposed. Perhaps more space will be needed to accommodate people using mobile devices and computer stations. Maybe extra space will be required to support collaborative work, and to host programs and other kinds of community gatherings. Our design team has been careful to create spaces that can be re-configured as needs change.
In addition to flexibility, the new Georgetown Branch will be a model of accessibility and sustainability. The Library will be welcoming to people of all ages and abilities; we will ensure that there are no barriers to enjoyment. The Library is aiming for a LEED Silver certification and as such, will demonstrate the principles of 'green' construction and operation, and actively promote these techniques so that people will consider incorporating in their own homes, schools and places of work.
We think that the renewed Georgetown Branch Library will become a delightful, and restful second home to many, with its comfortable furnishings, double-sided fireplace, enticing displays, listening/viewing centre, and meeting spaces.
Construction begins in the spring of 2011 so stay tuned for photos of shovels hitting the ground!
Jane Diamanti
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Great Changes Ahead in 2011!
With careful and thoughtful input from staff, the design team has finalized the interior layout for the Georgetown Branch. We have made optimum use of the space, and have wherever possible, allowed for some flexibility so that areas can change as needed. We also have a very good sense of our décor direction—using warm earthy tones, the Georgetown Library will be inviting, comfortable, functional, and we hope, have an impressive ‘wow’ factor that will make visiting a memorable experience for patrons of all ages.
In addition to the Georgetown Branch planning, we have also confirmed the floor plan and the upgrades needed for the temporary site at 224 Maple Avenue. Some changes are designed to improve accessibility, e.g, the installation of a chair lift. However, most of the upgrades are cosmetic in nature and primarily involve painting, carpeting and signage. We are trying to limit the number of structural changes to keep costs low, and with any luck, we can re-allocate unused funds to the much larger and permanent project of renewing the Georgetown Branch.
As best as we can guess, please find below the significant dates related to the Georgetown Branch Project. These dates are still tentative and subject to change. Please stay tuned to the website for updates: www.hhpl.on.ca
February 1st
o The Library takes possession of the temporary site for Georgetown Branch
o Upgrades to the temporary site begin
March 21st-March 30th
o Georgetown Branch closes in preparation for move to the temporary site
o Staff and collections move to the temporary site
Note: Items will not be due during the closure. Information will be out shortly regarding the pick up of items on hold when the branch is closed.
Early April
o The Georgetown Branch opens at the temporary site
May 2011
o Re-construction of Georgetown Branch/Cultural Centre begins
Fall 2012
o Opening of the renewed Georgetown Branch/Cultural Centre!
With careful and thoughtful input from staff, the design team has finalized the interior layout for the Georgetown Branch. We have made optimum use of the space, and have wherever possible, allowed for some flexibility so that areas can change as needed. We also have a very good sense of our décor direction—using warm earthy tones, the Georgetown Library will be inviting, comfortable, functional, and we hope, have an impressive ‘wow’ factor that will make visiting a memorable experience for patrons of all ages.
In addition to the Georgetown Branch planning, we have also confirmed the floor plan and the upgrades needed for the temporary site at 224 Maple Avenue. Some changes are designed to improve accessibility, e.g, the installation of a chair lift. However, most of the upgrades are cosmetic in nature and primarily involve painting, carpeting and signage. We are trying to limit the number of structural changes to keep costs low, and with any luck, we can re-allocate unused funds to the much larger and permanent project of renewing the Georgetown Branch.
As best as we can guess, please find below the significant dates related to the Georgetown Branch Project. These dates are still tentative and subject to change. Please stay tuned to the website for updates: www.hhpl.on.ca
February 1st
o The Library takes possession of the temporary site for Georgetown Branch
o Upgrades to the temporary site begin
March 21st-March 30th
o Georgetown Branch closes in preparation for move to the temporary site
o Staff and collections move to the temporary site
Note: Items will not be due during the closure. Information will be out shortly regarding the pick up of items on hold when the branch is closed.
Early April
o The Georgetown Branch opens at the temporary site
May 2011
o Re-construction of Georgetown Branch/Cultural Centre begins
Fall 2012
o Opening of the renewed Georgetown Branch/Cultural Centre!
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