Anna Goodman | Thesis Volume I

Commu nity Library

Anna Goodman ITDS 4224 Design Research for Interiors, Fall 2024

Table of Contents

2

Introduction Problem Site Context Research Summary Design Recommendations Appendices

4 12 22 36 52 78

Introduction

4

Mission Statement Executive Summary Goals & Objectives Client Prof ile End Users

5

To s u p p or t t h e evol v i n g n eeds of th e co a fo u n d a t i on for a resi l i ent an d con n ec i n d i v i d u a l s by ex pan di n g acces s to kn o con n ec t i on , a n d re f le c t t h e libra r y ’s com lea rn in g a n d com m uni ty v i tal i ty.

Mission Statement

ommu nity a n d foste r c ted s o c ie ty, e m p owe r owled ge an d s o ci a l mmit m en t to l i fe l on g

7

As community needs evolve, the role of libraries has shifted f rom being primarily a place of books to dynamic community hubs that provide education, technology, wellness, and social engagement resources. In smaller communities where public space is limited, the library becomes a vital resource center that influences how people navigate the neighborhood, feel a sense of place, and experience belonging, offering programs and spaces that reflect the specif ic values and needs of the area.

The Indian Valley Public Library (IVPL) has served f ive communities for over 60 years, and its evolution into a community center reflects a deep commitment to serving the community.

Over the years, the library has become a place to connect, learn, and grow.

Guided by a mission to foster lifelong learning, inclusivity, and community well-being, the library is dedicated to addressing the evolving needs of the communities it serves, aiming to f ill a crucial gap by offering services that reflect the values and aspirations of its residents. The new library will serve as a community anchor—a place where individuals of all ages can gather, access valuable resources, and experience a strong sense of belonging.

E xecutive Summary 8

1

SUPPORT EDUCATIONAL GROWTH AND LIFELONG LEARNING

2

EXPAND ACCESS TO TECHNOLOGY AND DIGITAL RESOURCES

3

STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WELLNESS

4

ENCOURAGE CIVIC ENGAGEMENT AND SOCIAL AWARENESS

5

PRESERVE AND PROMOTE COMMUNITY BELONGING AND IDENTITY

Goals & Objectives

9

The library can trace its beginning to 1948 when the SoudertonTelford Women’s Club began to collect and catalogue books.

Their collection was located in the council chambers of Souderton Borough Hall, containing mostly f iction. In 1961 the Library Committee was formed to establish plans for an expanded community library.

The Indian Valley Public Library was off icially established on April 19, 1963. A year later, the area’s f irst off icial public library opened in the old Telford Elementary School, leased for $1 a year f rom the Souderton School District. The library now serves more than 43,000 residents in Franconia, Souderton, Telford, Upper Salford, and Lower Salford.

By 1979, the 3,200-square-foot library had outgrown in the 80-year-old schoolhouse. The library board approved the purchase of two acres of land on Allentown Road as a f irst step to building a new library. $150,000 was raised for the project.

Two years later, a roof collapse indicated major structural problems existed at the schoolhouse and the Library Board requested the use of the former Telford Elementary School on Church Avenue (20,000 sq ft) as an interim facility. Here, the library experienced signif icant membership growth and in 1985 the board voted to renovate the building and adopt the school as its permanent home. That year, the deed for the building was turned over f rom the school district to the library.

Client Prof ile 10

FAMILIES

SENIOR CITIZENS

The library serves parents seeking educational and recreational resources for children, such as storytime sessions, youth literacy programs and familyfocused workshops.

Older adults use library resources for lifelong learning, social connection, and wellness programming.

Accessible spaces will support their community engagement.

STUDENTS

COMMUNITY MEMBERS

All learners will benef it f rom the library’s access to academic and career resources. This includes homeschooling families and those needing support for remote or hybrid learning.

Members engaged in local governance, public issues, or volunteering will have a hub for organizing, hosting forums, and accessing civic resources.

End Users

11

Problem

12

Problem Statement History of the Library Literature Review Library Data Library Trends

13

As co m mu n i ty n eeds evol ve, t h e role of pri m ari l y a p l a ce of books to dy n amic c edu ca t i o n , te ch n ology, we lln e ss, an d so sm a l l e r com m u n it ie s wh e re p u b lic spac a v i tal re s o u rce center t h a t in f luen ces h n eighb o rh o o d, feel a s ense of place, an pro gra m s a n d s pa ce s t h a t re f le c t th e sp

Problem Statement

f li b rari e s h a s s h i fte d f rom b e in g co m m u n ity h u b s t h a t p rovide oci a l e n g a g e m e n t re sou rce s. In ce i s l i mi te d , t h e l i b ra r y be com e s h ow p eo p l e n a v i g ate th e n d exp e ri e n ce b e l on gi n g, of fe rin g peci f i c val u e s a n d n e e d s of t h e are a.

15

FOUNDATION AND EARLY DEVELOPMENT 1776: The United States had 15 publicly accessible libraries, primarily in Pennsylvania, New York, and New England.

1876: Rapid expansion due to public education and technological advances like the rotary printing press resulted in 3,674 public libraries with over 12 million volumes.

1886-1920s: Andrew Carnegie funded the construction of over 1,600 libraries in the U.S., emphasizing function, economy, and future expansion. The Carnegie Libraries set architectural precedents for adaptability and openness.

EARLY 20TH CENTURY INNOVATIONS 1895: The Boston Public Library was redesigned to separate reading rooms f rom book stacks, a signif icant architectural milestone.

1902-1911: The New York Public Library incorporated advanced features like book lifts and pneumatic tubes for eff icient book delivery.

1948: The American Library Association (ALA) released “A National Plan for Public Library Service,” establishing standards for library design and functionality.

POST-WAR DEVELOPMENTS 1950s: Modular designs expanded, emphasizing flexibility in spaces for books, seating, and technical facilities.

1970s: Libraries like the New York Public Library expanded underground to accommodate growing collections.

CONTEMPORARY LIBRARY TRENDS 1980s-1990s: Libraries began integrating digital media and enhancing public accessibility with technology and community-centric designs.

2000s: Emphasis shifted toward hybrid libraries blending traditional and digital resources, offering co-working spaces, and incorporating environmental sustainability.

TODAY Libraries now integrate advanced technologies, collaborative spaces, and multifunctional designs to meet evolving societal needs, ensuring their role as cultural and educational hubs.

History of the Library 16

LIBRARY AND LOCAL IDENTITY Public libraries are more than just physical spaces, but social inf rastructures that foster community, inclusivity, and intellectual f reedom. They serve as places for community building, bridging gaps between different socio-economic groups, and actively transforming communities, (Ptacek, 2016).

THE LIBRARY’S ROLE Libraries address a range of intersecting needs including mental health, exercise, diet, technology literacy, housing, and employment, providing essential services that promote personal growth and social well-being while creating spaces for interaction, learning, and support, (Hammock, 2023).

THE LIBRARY IS NEIGHBORHOOD CENTRIC Libraries are adept at understanding the needs of their communities and becoming part of the solution to community problems. Centrally located, the public library is woven into the urban landscape, influencing how people navigate the neighborhood, feel a sense of place, and experience belonging.

This connection shapes how individuals engage with both the library and the city itself, Lushington et al., 2016).

Literature Review

17

Adult (717) Children’s 0-5 (201) Children’s 6-11 (137) Young Adult (22)

Programs Offered

Print Material (343,305) Children’s Material (183,235) Electronic Material (63,789) Other E-Content (23,501) Other Physical Items (1,853)

Circulation

Indian Valley Public Library Data (From Fiscal Year 2022)

6,632 6,000

4,567 4,000

2,352 50,000

98 0 Children’s 0-5

Children’s 6-11

Young Adult

Adult

Program Attendance

Total Physical (119,806) Books/Print Material (94,506) Audio - Physical (10,925) Video - Physical (14,138) Other Physical (237) E-Books (12,315) Audio - Downloadable (9,594) Video - Downloadable (842)

Collections

19

AGING ADVANCEMENTS By 2050, one in f ive Americans could be aged 65 or older and advancements in health and longevity mean individuals are spending more time in retirement, often seeking leisure, lifelong learning, and community engagement. For libraries, this trend underscores the need to adapt collections, programs, and services to meet the interests and needs of older adults.

CO-WORKING The co-working trend has revolutionized the way individuals and organizations use shared spaces, blending work with community engagement and flexible access to resources. Specialized coworking spaces highlight the potential for libraries to create inclusive environments that serve specif ic community needs.

COLLECTIVE IMPACT Libraries have an opportunity to deepen their role as key collaborators in addressing major societal issues such as literacy, economic development, and health equity. They can serve as accessible, neutral spaces for collective impact initiatives and provide resources, data, and programming that align with broader community goals.

Library Trends

CONNECTED LEARNING Connected learning leverages digital and social media to create interactive, interest-driven, and peer-supported environments.

For libraries, it highlights opportunities to bridge gaps between formal and informal education by providing access to technology, internet connectivity, and resources that foster creativity and skill development.

CREATIVE PLACEMAKING Creative placemaking integrates arts and culture into the physical and social transformation of public spaces, fostering community engagement, economic development, and a stronger sense of identity. Libraries can create environments that reflect shared values, amplify community voices, and empower their communities.

MAKER MOVEMENT The maker movement empowers individuals to create, invent, and innovate using a mix of new technologies, traditional craft tools, and collaborative communities. For libraries, this represents a shift to becoming hubs of creation and innovation. Library makerspaces can support community learning, entrepreneurship, and technological exploration, making advanced tools and resources accessible to all.

21

Site Context

22

Building History Existing Conditions Site Development Site Analysis Demographics

23

Harleysville Insurance, originally founded in 1917 in Harleysville, PA, began as a small local company providing automobile and homeowners insurance. Over the years, it grew into a signif icant player in the property and casualty insurance industry, particularly through the creation of Harleysville Mutual as its parent company in the 1960s. This allowed the company to expand its commercial lines and gradually extend its reach beyond Pennsylvania to multiple states across the U.S. By the 1980s, Harleysville had gone public, fueling further growth through acquisitions of smaller f irms. (Company Histories) In 2012, Harleysville Mutual and its subsidiary Harleysville Group were acquired by Nationwide Insurance, marking a major change for the company. The merger integrated Harleysville into Nationwide’s network while maintaining its focus on independent agency partners, allowing them to offer a broader range of insurance and f inancial services as part of Nationwide’s extensive portfolio, operating under a unif ied brand. (ADVFN) In 2020, Nationwide announced a permanent shift to a hybrid working model. This included closing several off ices, including the Harleysville, PA, location, and transitioning most employees to remote work. As a result of this shift, the Harleysville building, which had been a key off ice for Nationwide, is now vacant.

(Nationwide News)

Building History 24

Over 1,000 Parking Spaces

Two-story Courtyard 1,800+ Solar Panels

Existing Conditions

25

1965

1970

1985

1990

Site Development

1975

1980

1995

2000

27

355 MAPLE AVENUE

28 HARLEYSVILLE, PENNSYLVANIA

29

S IDEWA LK

Over 80 mi entire com healthy, ac

NE IGHBORHOOD CONNECTIVI TY At least 90% of neighborhoods within 1 mile can access the site through the main trail network.

Site Analysis

K A ND PAT H N E TWOR K

iles of paths connect the mmunity and promote ctive lifestyles.

TRAFFI C DATA PA-113 and PA-63 (Main Street) record an average of 35,000 vehicles daily, creating a hub that is highly visible and accessible.

31

White Black or Af rican American Asian Hispanic Other

Race

16-19 20-24 25-29 30-34 35-44 45-54 55-59 60-64 65-74 75+ Labor Force Participation

Community Demographics

Mean

150,000

Median

100,000

50,000

0 Households

Families

Married Families

Non Families

Income by Household Type

Only English Asian/Pacif ic Island Languages Spanish Indo-European Languages Other Languages

Language

33

0-9

10-19

20-29

30

7% 11% 11% 10% Age Demographics

0-39

40-49

50-59

60+

17% 33% 11%

35

Research Su mmary

36

Interviews Case Studies

37

ASHL EY TALI AFERRO Interior Designer at Quinn Evans

“Libraries are like the boots on the ground forces. They don’t often have a lot of money or a lot of time, so they have to make do with that they have and fulf ill a lot of needs with a lot of hats.”

• Library projects are about engaging with the community and the library leadership, because each community is different.

Library service models: • Staff will be behind closed doors, all in one area, and service will come f rom the circulation desk. There is a clear separation between public and private.

• Librarians are dispersed throughout with smaller service points. This is about serving the patrons where they are.

• A collection heavy service model is more traditional, which breaks up spaces based on the different types of collections.

Secondary spaces: • Digital labs • Makerspaces • Respite spaces

Interviews

TR AC EY R EED Director of The Indian Valley Public Library

“We’re the last great democratic institution in this country. The only thing we ever ask of people who walk in the building is to behave. There are no expectations.

You don’t have to spend money, don’t have to check anything out. You can be here all day and do nothing, as long as you behave. And there’s no place else in the country that you can do that anymore, 365 days a year.”

• Library service base is 44,309 people.

• Roughly 20,000 library card holders (~50%) Staff ing: • 100 volunteers, working in the circulation room, garden club, and mending or f ixing the books.

• 10 full-time staff members: • Director • Three Children’s Librarians • Adult Services Librarian • Digital Services Librarian • Technical Services Librarian • Volunteer Coordinator/Tech Services Assistant • Circulation Supervisor • Development Off icer • 20-25 seasonal/part-time staff members

Aspirations for the library: • Individual workspace for part-time staff • More space for book processing • Makerspaces • Teen Space • Children’s story space, sensory rooms • Spaces for community partners • Outdoor programming space • Auditorium space 39

AL B IO N LIBR ARY Toronto, Ontario Designer: Perkins & Will Client: Toronto Public Library Size: 29,000 square feet Completion Date: 2017

The Albion Library serves as a transformative community hub that emphasizes accessibility, sustainability, and adaptability to meet the needs of its diverse population. This project demonstrates how thoughtful, community-oriented design can make a library not only a place for books but a vital resource that supports education, social connection, and cultural expression.

A technology and business resource center allows adults to conduct business or search for employment while keeping in visual and spatial contact with kids and teens.

Case Studies

Highly adaptable areas, including multipurpose rooms, a digital innovation space, and an “Urban Living Room” accommodate cultural events, performances, and gatherings. These flexible spaces support a range of activities, empowering users to engage in cultural expression, creativity, and learning.

41

The layout is structured around three glass-enclosed courtyards, dividing the building into designated areas for children, teens, and adults. These courtyards offer outdoor extensions for each user group’s programming and reinforcing the connection to nature.

Site and Floor Plan:

Case Studies

The building’s bold architecture, including vibrant exterior patterns and an open, airy interior, serves as a landmark in the neighborhood. This visually striking design helps the library stand out as a symbol of community pride and progress.

43

H ALIFAX CE NTR AL L IBR ARY Halifax, Nova Scotia Designer: Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects Client: Halifax Regional Municipality, Halifax Public Libraries Size: 156,077 square feet Completion Date: 2014

The Halifax Central Library functions as a f ree, public space in the heart of the city, fostering knowledge exchange and community engagement. The library exemplif ies the modern role of libraries as multi-functional spaces that go beyond book lending to support education, cultural engagement, and community cohesion, solidifying its place as a cherished civic landmark.

Case Studies

Diverse resources and amenities include a 300-seat performance space, music studios, gaming stations, and boardrooms for entrepreneurs. The second floor is entirely dedicated to youth, supporting a range of developmental needs.

Specialized spaces like the First Nations reading circle and adult literacy areas also highlight the library’s commitment to inclusivity and community support.

45

Designed as a “hybrid library,” traditional and innovative programs are combined, making it highly adaptable to future community needs. The building’s open, light-f illed atrium connects the various levels, offering a cohesive experience across multiple functions and promoting interaction among patrons.

Floor Plans:

Case Studies

Four rectangular volumes are stacked and slightly rotated, aligning to connect the historic Halifax Citadel and Halifax Harbour. The orientation honors the city’s maritime heritage and provides panoramic views f rom the f ifth-floor “Halifax Living Room,” connecting patrons to Halifax’s cultural and historical context.

47

T H E M A RT IN LUTH E R K ING J R . M EM ORI AL LI BRARY Washington, DC Designer: OTJ and Mecanoo Client: Washington, DC Public Library Size: 450,000 square feet Completion Date: 2021

Originally designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in 1972, the library now embodies the values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as a dynamic, inclusive hub for learning and community engagement.

Case Studies

The library now features a public roof garden, 291-seat auditorium, fabrication lab, and community studios for music, dance, and yoga. These additions emphasize activity and collaboration, transforming the library into an active civic space rather than just a place to read.

49

Facilities like the fabrication lab and skill-training areas provide resources for hands-on education and professional development, aligning with Dr. King’s vision of empowerment and equality. The library also hosts events and workshops, reinforcing its role as a center for community growth.

Floor Plans:

Case Studies

The library caters to diverse audiences, f rom a colorful children’s library with age-specif ic zones and a slide, to quiet reading areas and a rooftop “sky-garden” offering tranquility and city views. These spaces reflect a commitment to inclusivity and engagement across all demographics.

51

Design Recommendations

52

Floor Plans Program Requirements Line-by-Line Program Adjacency Diagrams Code Requirements ADA Considerations

53

L EVE L 01 ~ 110,000 sq. ft Design Challenge: Multiple entry points

Courtyard

STAIR 11

STAIR 10

UP

UP NORTHEAST VEST

SOUTHEAST VEST

UP

STOR

JAN.

WOMENS

ELEC.

STOR

IDF STAIR 9

JAN MENS UP

WOMENS

ELEC

VEST

COFFEE BAR

NORTH VEST

ELEV LOBBY

EMR

STAIR 7 UP VEST.

JAN

STOR

LACTATION UP

STAIR 8

COURTYARD VEST. MENS

ELEC

ELEC

ELEV LOBBY

IDF

WOMENS

JAN.

UP

LACTATION

ELEC MENS

JANITOR

UP STAIR 5

UP

LOADING DOCK

STAIR 6

STAIR 6

STORAGE UP

Loading Dock

Floor Plans

Exterior Patio

VESTIBULE MECH

EAST ENTRY STAIR 2

UP

FIRE PROTECTION

EAST ENTRY HALL UP

ZEN GARDEN

STORAGE WOMENS

MECH

CONNECTOR

VEST. STORAGE PASSAGE

ELECTRIC

MENS STAIR 4

LACTATION

DEMARK

JAN

ELEC DOCK

UP STAIR 3

FIRE PROTECTION

MDF

DATA/COPY

Loading Dock

STAIR 13

UP

55

L EVE L 02 ~ 90,000 sq. ft

Courtyard

STAIR 11

STAIR 10

UP

UP STAIR 10

STAIR 11 STAIR 1 ST-1 UP

STOR.

JANITOR

WOMENS

ELEC

SAT HEAD END

STORAGE

ELEC E209

STAIR 9

JANITOR IDF UP

MENS

WOMENS

ELEC

VEST

STAIR 12

UP

ELEV LOBBY

STORAGE

STOR STAIR 7 UP STAIR 8 UP

STOR

ELEV LOBBY

IDF

ELEC

ELEC JAN.

MENS

UP

WOMENS

WOMENS

MENS

ELEC

MENS

JANITOR

UP STAIR 5

STAIR 6

DN MECH

STAIR 6

DN

Floor Plans

B2

UP STAIR 2

STORAGE WOMENS

PIPE

UP

STAIR 4 ELEC

MENS RESTROOM

STAIR 3

Main Entrance

WOMENS

STAIRUP 13

57

L EVE LS 03 A ND 0 4 ~ 12,000 sq. ft each

STAIR 2

STORAGE IDF WOMENS

STAIR 4

MENS

ELEC.

STAIR 3

3RD FLOOR

Floor Plans

STAIR 2

STORAGE MECH

STAIR 4

MENS

WOMENS

ELEC

STORAGE

STAIR 3

59

1

T h e l i b ra r y mu st a d a p t to m odern f lex i b l e s pa ce s a n d p rograms th at co l l a b ora tive work , a n d d igital lite

2

T h e l i b ra r y n e e d s a d a p ta b le space eve n t s a n d cu l t u ral p rograms.

3

T h e l i b ra r y mu st p rovide re liable d di g i ta l s kills worksh op s to ensure e o n l i n e re s ou rce s for all re sidents.

Program Requirements

e du ca ti o n a l n e e d s by of fe rin g su ppo r t i n d e p e n d e nt st u d y, eracy.

es to su p p o r t com mu n ity

devi ce s , i n te rn e t a cce ss, an d equ a l a cce s s to tech n ology a n d

61

4

Acce s s i b l e in d oor a n d ou td oor spa re s i d e n t s can gat h e r inform ally, in co n n e c t i ons a cross dive rse dem og

5

R e s ou rce s a n d sp a ce s m u st be inte a n d p hys i cal we ll-be in g, su ch as w sp a ce s for re cre a t ion al a c t ivities.

6

Sp a ce m u st be provide d for exhibit ce l e b ra te t h e cu l t u ra l d ive rsity an d

7

Sp a ce s a n d re sou rce s for local org co m m u n i ty ad voca cy m u st be avai

8

Sp a ce s m ust be f u lly acce ss ible, w f u rn i t u re , an d q u ie t zon e s for n eur

Program Requirements

aces m u s t b e p rov ide d wh e re ntera c t s oci a l l y, a n d b u ild comm u n ity graphi c s .

egrated t h a t e n cou rage m e nta l we l l n e s s p ro g ra m s , qu ie t zon e s, a n d

ts, even ts , a n d p rogra m m in g t h at d hi s to r y of t h e com m u n ity.

gani zat i o ns , c i v i c for u m s, an d ilabl e fo r g rou p s to m e e t an d h ost

wit h in cl u s i ve s i g n age , ad a p ta b le rodi ve rse i n d i v i d u als.

63

SH E LVIN G Quantity

CHI LD REN’ S D IS COVERY

TBD

1

Space Allocation

2,000 sq ft., 13,909 linear ft.

1,000-1,500 sq ft. total

Function

Shelving for the total number of current volumes while considering future growth.

A place for storytime and ea literacy programs, hands on discovery, and parent child activities.

Adjacency

Close proximity to reading areas, access to circulation.

Direct access to children’s literature.

COU RTYAR D Quantity

M ULTI -PURPOS E S PACE

1

1

Space Allocation

8,200 sq ft.

800-1,000 sq ft.

Function

Space for outdoor events, lounge setting, and community gardens.

Multi-functional and flexible space for workshops, commu events, and adaptable library programming.

N/a.

Adjacent to lobby and public spaces.

Adjacency

L i b ra r y pu b lic spa ce ~ 15,000 to Line-By-Line Program

T EE N SPAC E

rly

TECHNOLOGY ACCESS

1

1

800-1,000 sq ft.

500-800 sq ft.

Space for academic support, gaming and social activities, book clubs and writing groups, and other teen resources.

Public computers, mobile workstations, and printing resources for internet access, technology literature, etc.

Direct access to young adult and teen literature.

Close proximity to information desk.

WE LL N ESS R O OMS

M OTHER’ S ROOM S

1-2

1-2

80-100 sq ft.

80-100 sq ft.

e unity y

Private space and quiet retreatfor meditation, mindfulness, or relaxation.

A visually private, lockable space that is for parents who are nursing.

c

Near restrooms and other private areas.

Near restrooms and other private areas.

otal 65

STAFF WOR K ROOM Quantity

STAFF WORKS PACE

1-2

1-2

Space Allocation

2,000 sq ft. total

1,500 sq ft. total

Function

Designed to support eff icient workflow and collaboration.

If library is on multiple floors, provide a workroom on all floors.

A place for part-time staff to do off-desk work. If library is multiple floors, it may make to provide one on each floor.

Adjacency

Direct access f rom circulation desk, delivery/receiving area, break room, and private off ices.

Direct access f rom circulatio desk, workroom, and close proximity to all staff spaces.

FO L STO R AGE Quantity

STAFF BREAK ROOM

1

1

Space Allocation

100-200 sq ft.

500-700 sq ft.

Function

Storage for Friends’ book sale donations; space for sorting.

Staff break room, “work cafe space. Staff lockers, microwa coffee maker, ref rigerator, va of seating.

Access for FOL through delivery/ receiving area or staff workroom, not through public area.

Direct access to staff workro

Adjacency

L i b ra r y staf f sp a ce ~ 7,0 00 total Line-By-Line Program

BO O K D ROP

D ELIVERY/RECEIVI NG AREA

1

1

100 sq ft.

250-500 sq ft.

o s on sense .

Room contains bins that hold materials returned f rom customers through exterior book drops.

Daily pickup and delivery of wheeled bins containing library material; delivery/receiving may also serve as staff entry.

on

Exterior wall for book drop equipment, staff workroom.

Exterior access; direct access to loading area; direct access to staff workroom.

PRIVAT E O FFIC E S

STAFF CONFERENCE

10

1

100-150 sq ft.

200-350 sq ft.

e” type ave, ariety

Private off ices for each of the fulltime staff members when they aren’t at service areas or other parts of the library.

Private conference room for 4-8 staff members to meet.

oom.

Direct access to staff workroom, close proximity to public areas

Direct access to staff workroom; not accessible f rom the public areas.

l 67

GR OU P ME E TI NG ROOM S Quantity

HUD D LE ROO MS

8-10

10-15

Space Allocation

200-350 sq ft.

100-150 sq ft.

Function

Space for 4-8 people to meet.

Flexible seating, technology, workspace.

Space for 1-2 people to meet work.

Adjacency

Will be used by community members, organizations, and legislation. After hours public access may make sense.

Will be used by community members, organizations, and legislation. After hours publi access may make sense.

Com m u nity m e e t in g spa ce ~ 5 ,0

Line-By-Line Program

t or

d ic

I N DIVID UAL R O OMS

CONFERENCE ROOM S

10

2

50 sq ft.

500-700 sq ft.

Space for 1 person to focus or take phone calls.

Space for 10-15 people to meet.

Flexible seating, technology, hospitality counter.

Will be used by community members, organizations, and legislation. After hours public access may make sense.

Will be used by community members, organizations, and legislation. After hours public access may make sense.

00 0 -10,0 0 0 to ta l

69

CAFE+ COMMERCI AL KI TCHEN Quantity

AUD I TORI UM

1

1

Space Allocation

10,000-15,000 sq ft.

3,000-5,000 sq ft, 200+ capa

Function

Public cafe for social interactions, community programming and events, and gathering space that supports local businesses.

A 200+ seat auditorium to ho community events, educatio programs, community forum and provide rental opportun

Adjacency

May have hours outside of the library. After hours public access may make sense, close proximity to lobby or separate entrance.

May have hours outside of th library. After hours public ac may make sense, close proxi to lobby or separate entranc

S e con d a r y com m u n ity space ~ 2

Line-By-Line Program

M A K E RSPAC E

COWORKI NG SPACE

1-2

1

city

1,500 sq ft. for 25 people

750-1,000 sq ft, 20-30 capacity

ost onal ms, nities.

Innovative, hands-on environment with access to specialized tools and technology.

An accessible workspace that supports remote and hybrid workers, offers flexibility, and encourages networking.

he ccess imity ce.

Will be used by community members and organizations. After hours public access may make sense.

Will be used by community members, organizations, and small businesses. After hours public access may make sense.

25,00 0 tota l

71

INTEGR ATE FOR GOOD Quantity

M I TZVAH CI RC LE

1

1

Space Allocation

2,000-3,500 sq ft.

2,000-3,500 sq ft.

Function

Satelite space for workshops, labs, and community volunteering to expand services.

Satelite space for storage, volunteering, and expanding programs.

To be determined.

To be determined.

Adjacency

Com m u nity pa r t n e r spa ce ~ 8 ,0

Line-By-Line Program

K EYSTO N E O PP ORTU N ITY CENTER 1 2,000-3,500 sq ft.

g key

Satelite space for food pantry, educational programming, f inancial and housing assistance.

To be determined.

0 0 -10,0 0 0 to ta l

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Typical Core Function Adjacencies

Adjacency Diagrams

Core Programmatic Functions

Flow of Circulation Area

Flow of Staff Area

75

LOCAL BUILDING CODE Lower Salford Township administers and enforces the State Uniform Construction Code (U.C.C.), which references the 2018 I.C.C. set of codes and includes the 2018 International Building Codes.

OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION Assembly Group A-2: Restaurant/Cafe Assembly Group A-3: Library

Code Requirements

Walkways

Entry/Exit Doorways

Reaching Books on Shelves

ADA Considerations

Approach to Tables, Computers, or Other Seating

77

Appendices

78

Interview Questions Sources

79

Interview with Ashley Taliaferro, Interior Designer at Quinn Evans Could you share your guiding philosophy when designing libraries and community centers?

What are some of the most transformative design features you’ve implemented that have enhanced community engagement?

What program elements do you see as essential in supporting a library’s role in fostering strong, vibrant communities?

How can libraries adapt their spaces and services to better support varied learning styles and social needs?

What are some effective ways to integrate technology into library spaces without overshadowing traditional resources?

What trends in technology for libraries have you found to be most impactful for patrons and staff?

What role does a library’s design play in promoting social cohesion and community pride?

Do you have examples of programming spaces that specif ically support cultural or intergenerational connections?

Based on your experience, what programming elements or spaces are often overlooked but have a big impact?

How do you think libraries will continue to evolve as community centers in the next decade?

Is there any additional advice you would give someone working on a project focused on enhancing community support through library and community center design?

Do you have any data on community center or library design about user needs that you could share? (Pre/post occupancy surveys, research, etc.)

Interview Questions

Interview with Tracey Reed, Directory of The Indian Valley Public Library Strengths: •What does the library do very well now?

•What are your greatest strengths?

Opportunities: •Where are there opportunities for the library to make a difference, contribute, or innovate? What are your best opportunities?

Aspirations: •What are your hopes and dreams for the future of the library?

• What do you want the library to be known for?

Results: •What do you most want to accomplish?

•What will success look like?

What would you say is the core mission of the library?

How do you see the library’s role evolving over the next 5 to 10 years?

What do you believe are the most signif icant needs or gaps the library could address within the community?

Can you describe the primary demographics of the patrons who currently use the library? Are there any underserved groups?

What types of programs do you think residents would most benef it f rom in the coming years?

What programs or partnerships have been most successful in reaching and engaging the community?

Are there other organizations or local groups you would like to partner with to expand the library’s impact?

What are some of the limitations or challenges of the current library space?

If you could envision the library’s future without any limitations, what would it look like?

81

ADVFN. (2012). Harleysville Insurance is now part of the Nationwide family.

Retrieved f rom https://www.advf n.com/stock-market/NASDAQ/HGIC/stocknews/52227167/harleysville-insurance-is-now-part-of-the-nationwi American Library Association (2014). Trends. Retrieved f rom https://www.ala.org/ future/trends AreaVibes. Harleysville, PA demographics. Retrieved f rom https://www. areavibes.com/harleysville-pa/demographics/ ArchDaily. (2015). New Halifax Central Library / Schmidt Hammer Lassen.

Retrieved f rom https://www.archdaily.com/577039/new-halifax-centrallibrary-schmidt-hammer-lassen ArchDaily. (2017). Albion Library / Perkins+Will Canada. Retrieved f rom https:// www.archdaily.com/875091/albion-library-perkins-plus-will-canada ArchDaily. (2021). The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library / Mecanoo + OTJ Architects. Retrieved f rom https://www.archdaily.com/972337/the-martinluther-king-jr-memorial-library-mecanoo-plus-otj-architects Connecticut State Library. (2002). Library Space Planning Guide.

Data USA. Harleysville, PA. Retrieved f rom https://datausa.io/prof ile/geo/ harleysville-pa Sullivan, Margaret (2017). Designing community: 10 essential library spaces.

Retrieved f rom https://www.demcointeriors.com/blog/designing-community-10essential-library-spaces/ Fournier, M. D., & Ostman, S. (2020). Ask, listen, empower: Grounding your library work in community engagement.

Hammock, A., Pandolfelli, G., Samuel, T., Fils-Aimé, P., Grande, M., D’Ambrosion, M., Murphy, M., Kaur, S., Logan, J., Feuerstein-Simon, R., Cannuscio, C., & Benz Scott, L. (2023). Understanding how suburban public librarians respond to the health and social needs of communities. Library & Information Science Research, 45(1), 101217. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.LISR.2022.101217

Sources

Harleysville Group Inc. Company history. Retrieved f rom https://www.companyhistories.com/Harleysville-Group-Inc-Company-History.html Institute of Museum and Library Services. Search & compare tool. Retrieved f rom https://www.imls.gov/search-compare IVPL. Indian Valley Public Library. Retrieved f rom https://www.ivpl.org/ Lower Salford Township. Retrieved f rom https://www.lowersalfordtownship.org/ Lushington, N., Wolfgang Rudorf, Liliane Wong, Blake, N., & Al, E. (2016). Libraries: A Design Manual. Birkhäuser.

Montgomery County GIS. Montgomery County maps and web app.

Retrieved f rom https://gis.montcopa.org/portal/apps/webappviewer/index. html?id=868674358c3e49d6830710132a2def5d Nationwide Newsroom. (2020). Nationwide announces permanent shift in workplace work-f rom-home strategy. Retrieved f rom https://news. nationwide.com/nationwide-announces-permanent-shift-in-workplacework-f rom-home-strategy/ OTJ Architects. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. Retrieved f rom https://otj. com/projects/martin-luther-king-jr-memorial-library/ Perkins&Will. Albion Library. Retrieved f rom https://perkinswill.com/project/ albion-library/ Perkins&Will. Halifax Central Library, Canada. Retrieved f rom https://perkinswill. com/project/halifax-central-library-canada/ TEDx Talks. (2016). The library is not a place, it’s a concept. | Bill Ptacek | TEDxCalgary. In YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ES0zGUvZj5s World Population Review. Harleysville, Pennsylvania. Retrieved f rom https:// worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/pennsylvania/harleysville

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Commu nity Library

Anna Goodman ITDS 4224 Design Research for Interiors, Fall 2024