ASLAStudentChapter,Departmentof LandscapeArchitectureandRegional& CommunityPlanning,KansasStateUniversity

Project Identity And Design Intent

The “Pop-up Library Parklet” was a PARK(ing) Day display in collaboration with the Manhattan Public Library that engaged kids and families through interactive educational activities rooted in Landscape Architecture. This partnership was inspired by the ASLA 2022National PARK(ing) Day theme, which encouraged landscape architects to "use a parking space in front of a school, library, or community center to help students discover how to improve our public spaces, strengthen social connections, and boost health and well-being.” The Manhattan Public Library is located on Poyntz Avenue in historic downtown Manhattan, KS. There are many activities happening inside the library but the street area in front of the building is mostly inactive. The parklet was placed in front of the library occupying two parallel parking spaces, maximizing the visibility, proximity, and programming opportunities.

Programming

The parklet had three main activities for visitors. First, they could learn about landscape architecture through reading the books on display or using interactive educational apps developed by students. At the second station, visitors expressed what they love about parks through drawing or writing. Finally, they practiced being a designer building model of their dream park.

Design Process And Construction

The design process was an inclusive and engaging experience for students in the Student ASLA Chapter. The students collaborated with representatives from the library to include their design considerations and suggestions. In order to reduce environmental impact from material waste, display pieces from previous PARK(ing)Day events were upcycled to fit the new site and program. The parklet was designed for easy transportation and could be packed into a single trailer. Books, bookshelves, furniture, plants, and other elements were provided by the library and were already on site.

Partnership With Manhattan Public Library

The partnership was mutually beneficial for both the library and the Student ASLA Chapter. The library was excited to have students plan and sponsor an event that would bring new activity to the site.

Project Benefits

The event allowed students to share the potential of landscape architecture with families that visited the display. The experience was also a great opportunity to engage new landscape architecture students in ASLA. Student volunteers learned about fabrication, marketing, how to host a community engagement event, and how to advocate for the landscape architecture profession.

Social Media

Students involved, alongside the library, used social media to promote the event and engage with people beyond those who attended PARK(ing) Day in-person. The event was advertised in advance on Instagram, Facebook, and the library’s emailed newsletter.

Learning Outcomes

The lessons learned during this project can be used to improve future PARK(ing) Day displays. Students found that the biggest takeaways were:

1. Partnering with a local organization provides mutual benefits for both groups.

2. Upcycling materials reduces environmental impact, construction costs, and time.

3. Creating adaptable, flexible designs allows for future reuse.