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Staying fresh
It's easy to think that your library will stay as fresh as it was the day you opened, or remodeled . . . or even painted. The sad fact is we all age faster than we think and that's true of buildings as well. Staying relevant is an on going effort. With a little planning, it is both manageable and cost effective, and a lot of fun for staff and patrons alike.
Certainly there is drama in the large scale renovation project, but in this issue we focus on a case study of smaller projects in an average sized library. Our thanks go out to the Palos Heights (IL) Public Library for their ongoing trust and willingness to try new ideas. Opened in 2004, the building is eight years into a very active life. In that time period Director Elaine Savage and her staff and trustees have completed two updates and are planning two more. These are not major re-workings, but tweaking to maximize the use of space and to avoid becoming stale.
 The first mini-project was to take an underperforming book sale area and add a bit of retail flair. Neutral colors were replaced with some accent paints and a lively red/orange feature wall. A new bench gives patrons a place to perch while browsing. The alcove was framed with glass and given new signage. The end product is the same size, in the same location, and in keeping with the overall flavor of the library interior, but much more noticeable and enjoyable. Sales are definitely up (or maybe its better books!)
Last winter, Elaine and her team undertook a more substantial project. The Teen Zone was updated to incorporate an expanded collection, more extensive programming, a gaming and video wall, and an aesthetic makeover.
This last piece is particularly interesting. As the siblings of the first generation of teens to use the space grew to become teens themselves, they didn't think the stuff their brothers and sisters had enjoyed was anywhere near cool enough. What to do? With a limited budget, we could not start over.
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BEFORE |
Fortunately, the space and furnishings selected for the original design were flexible. The edges of the space were more clearly defined to provide a better sense that this was a place set aside for teens. The character of the seating was altered by arranging furniture elements into a configuration that supported the vision of the Teen staff. A feature of the original space had been a pair of booths formed of mobile benches and tables. The benches were a combination of a seating bench, a backstop and a fabric covered screen behind the back rest that offered some enclosure (but no privacy). In the new arrangement, the bench units were separated from the tables and each other, and then rearranged as sofas. The seat element in each was reupholstered to update the look, while the backrest and screens were reused as is.
New shelves became the home for graphic novels and cafe tables and chairs were added to provide new seating. Small ottomans on wheels can be rolled around to any of the seating options or arranged in front of the monitor for gaming. Laptop tables extend the range of options the teens have within the room.
All in all, this was a $75,000 effort. Major elements, including a glass partition, additional furnishings and state-of-the-art media equipment, were selected to enhance the visitor experience. The video monitor is huge! When given the option to down size and save a penny, Trustee Bill Poore spoke for all male patrons when he advised "get the big one". We are grateful, Bill.
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AFTER |
The project offered the opportunity to roll some smaller items into the project and take advantage of various trades being on site. Surge protection, a new self check and some lighting was all more affordable when handled by the electrician while on site working on the Teen space. A great way to maximize your dollar is to minimize overhead. Wrapping small projects together is a great technique.
The improvements at Palos Heights Public Library were made possible by a conscious effort by the Library Board and staff.
First, the library tracked how well each space was meeting expectations. Underperforming spaces were targeted for renewal. High performing spaces were allowed to expand or get enhancements. Changing service models were considered, including the increased use of technology, the role of social gathering among a wide range of age groups and the particular collections. Service demands on the spaces were evaluated. A clear sense of what improvements would best benefit the community was in place.
Second, the Board had assigned a line in the budget to fund these kinds of improvements. Even the simplest update is a challenge if you are robbing the collections or maintenance funds.
Third, initial planning and design had envisioned this day would come. Changes were much easier and more affordable because of the built in adaptability of the space. From room size and configuration, to excess capacity in power and delta systems, to furnishing selections and color palettes, the planning process always included a "how does it work when its time to change" aspect. That effort eight years ago is paying off today.
So what's next? More of the same! Next year is the tenth anniversary of the library building. There are thoughts that the Adult Services room will get the next refreshing. We can't wait to be a part of the process. | 
