Haddonfield Public Library Library Program (A vision for the future)

Transcription

1 Library Program (A vision for the future) October 2008

2 Table of Contents Page Executive Summary...1 Overview of the Haddonfield Public Library...2 To Expand or Not Expand...2 The Haddonfield Community...5 Haddonfield Community Characteristics...5 Community Needs Assessment...6 Haddonfield Public Library Space Assessment...13 A New Library for Haddonfield...19 Library Program...24 Entrances...25 Contemporary Options...33 Attachment I: Functional Area Specifications

3 Executive Summary In 2007, the Haddonfield Borough Commissioners and Library Board of Trustees agreed that it was time again to reach out to the community to gather opinions about the future of the Haddonfield Public Library (HPL). To accomplish this task, the Commissioners engaged the services of Library Development Solutions, a Princeton, New Jersey based library consulting firm, with extensive experience in the areas of strategic planning, community needs assessment, library facility planning and program evaluation to develop a series of structured conversations with the Haddonfield community about the HPL. The objectives for this study were: 1) To conduct a community needs assessment to identify preferences for library services and facility through a series of focus groups, a town meeting and a user survey 2) To surface ideas from the community for improvements to the Haddonfield Public Library 3) To assess the current library s space to determine options for delivering a modern library service program to the Haddonfield community 4) To prepare a library program to guide an architect in designing new space for the Haddonfield Public Library Consultants from visited the Haddonfield Public Library on several occasions to assess the condition of the current library, discuss service and facility priorities with the community, and meet with the Borough Commissioners, Board of Trustees, library director, staff and residents to identify concerns and ideas to improve the functional capability and service program of the library. The process was not designed to be a referendum or to identify a consensus for any specific outcome. 1 The following Library Program is based on this data gathering. Library Development Solutions believes that this library program states the minimum size for a functional modern library for Haddonfield. The consultants have identified a number of options which can be chosen to enhance the library program and to provide services found in contemporary public libraries. 1 See the report Haddonfield Talks 1

4 Overview of the Haddonfield Public Library To Expand or Not Expand The Haddonfield Public Library was incorporated in 1909 as an independent municipal library chartered to serve the residents of Haddonfield Borough. Library service was provided in 1919 in the new facility on Haddon Avenue. The library s physical plant was improved with an addition in Discussion about expanding the library has been ongoing since 1969, when the Haddonfield Public Library Board of Trustees began to seriously consider the idea of expanding the 1919 library by exploring the purchase of the property behind the library which at the time was available for $150,000. For a variety of reasons, the purchase was never made. Deliberations about what to do to renovate and expand the library continued for another 20 years. Finally, in 1993, the Trustees commissioned library planners Ethel Klingerman and Norma Blake to assess the existing library and create a building program to detail the space requirements for the next 25 years. This report noted that the existing 12,000 square foot library, originally constructed in 1919 and renovated in 1959 had served the community well and that it was time to expand the facility to meet the changing needs of the community. The report and building plan recommended a new 31,000 square foot library. The report assumed a total collection of print and AV material growing to be over 130,000 items. A revision in 2001 increased the collection size to 150,000 items. This new plan estimates a total collection at least one third to one half less. 2 For the remainder of the decade the conversation about what to do with the library continued. The 1993 building program was followed up with a series of architectural studies and community conversations about the future of the library that considered options for expanding the library at its current location. For a variety of reasons, these talks stalled again in 2003, resumed in 2004 with architectural plans and then stalled again. In 2007 the library trustees appointed a new library director, Susan Briant, to succeed retiring director Doug Rauschenberger. As Susan introduced new services and service enhancements to the library, once again the attention of the Trustees and the Haddonfield Borough Board of Commissioners turned to the library building and services. By this time, the opening of the new Cherry Hill Public Library and improvements to other area libraries had attracted the attention of Haddonfield residents with many seeing for the first time the benefits associated with a modern library. 2 A Building Program for the Haddonfield Public Library, Revised by Voight and Mactavish Architects in There are many very specific functional architectural details in the Voight and Mactavish revision that should be considered. 2

5 People who went to the Cherry Hill Public Library had a positive experience, and in some cases purchased a non resident card. Upon returning to Haddonfield they have asked about the future of their own home town library. With a renewed focus on downtown revitalization and the library s role in supporting those efforts, new library leadership, and increased interest on the part of the community about the future of the library, in 2008 the time seemed right to ask the community for their opinions and thoughts about the future of the Haddonfield Public Library once again. The Library Mission The Haddonfield Public Library s mission statement describes the purpose of the library. The purpose of the Haddonfield Public Library is to serve the people of Haddonfield by providing ready access to information and ideas. Building on a tradition begun in 1803, the Library is a center for lifelong learning, welcoming people of all ages, backgrounds and interests. The Library's collections and services are dynamic and designed to meet the informational, educational and cultural needs of the community. Library Use The Haddonfield Public Library is actively used by the community it serves. During the 66 hours per week the library is open the Haddonfield Public Library offers: Programs for children including story hours, summer reading programs, toddler time and preschool story time Programs for adults including Book Clubs, Computer Classes and guest speakers 11 public access computers with high speed connections to the Internet A collection of fiction, non fiction, reference and Large Print books, DVDs, Playaways, audiobooks and digital content for children and adults A safe place for children and teens to gather and study after school Table One provides a comparison of key library use indicators for the past five years. Table One Library Use Indicators Indicator Hours open per year 3,253 3,251 3,265 3,245 3,255 Library visits annually 115, , , , ,177 Annual circulation 141, , , , ,644 Collection size* 85,869 86,483 85,436 83,473 84,699 Adult program attendance**

6 Children s program attendance Full time staff FTE s*** * Print volumes plus AV ** All numbers prior to 2007 are only for community programs held in the library; there were no library programs for adults until 2007 ***FTEs (full time equivalents) are the number of part time hours prorated to full time basis It should be noted that two events occurred in 2004 and 2005 that had a significant impact on library use in Haddonfield. The first was the opening of the Cherry Hill Public Library in December 2004, which provides non resident library cards at an affordable price. The second was the closing of the children s department from October 2005 to April 2006 to remove flood damaged carpeting and asbestos floor tiles. 3 Table Two provides an overview of the library s collection illustrating areas where the collection has grown over the last 4 years. Table Two Book and Audiovisual Stock Adult books 38,601 40,002 42,540 45,331 Adult AV 2,537 3,026 3,889 4,511 Children /YA books 21,209 22,455 23,992 24,934 Children/YA AV 1,227 1,571 1,782 2,074 Total 62,574 67,054 72,133 76,850 3 There are currently 409 Haddonfield residents who pay to have a Cherry Hill Public Library card. 4

7 The Haddonfield Community Haddonfield Community Characteristics For this study, we consulted a variety of sources including the 2000 US Census, The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Council, the New Jersey Municipal Data Book and the Haddonfield Board of Education to obtain up to date information about Haddonfield s population today and to identify trends likely to influence the community for the next 20 years. The results of this analysis are summarized below. Population According to the 2000 US Census the population of Haddonfield is 11,661 persons. Haddonfield s population will remain steady with slight decreases expected over the next several years. 4 Haddonfield is 97% White. Asian, Hispanic and African American populations are each below 2%. At 2.8 square miles, the Borough is very dense with over 4,000 people per square mile. Females slightly outnumber males in Haddonfield with 52.5% of the population female and 47.5%, male. Children 15 and younger comprise 22.2% of the population and residents 24 and younger are 31.8%. The two largest adult age cohorts appear in the age groups (25.4%) and age groups (27.9%). Older adults aged 65+ constitute 15.9% of the population. The average age for Haddonfield residents is 39.6 years. Housing There are 4,618 housing units in Haddonfield, of which 82.3% are owneroccupied. The average household size for home owners is 2.8 persons, and the average size for home renters is 1.43 persons. Education Thirty six percent (36%) of Haddonfield s population over 25 years of age have a Bachelors Degree and 28.9% have an advanced degree as compared to the state averages of 18.8% and 11.0% respectively. Approximately 90% of the town s student population attends the public schools for a district total of 2,434 students. Given the current economy it 4 The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Council (DVRPC) estimates Haddonfield s population at 11,475 by

8 is expected that this number will remain steady or grow slightly in the next few years. Close to 97% of those graduating from high school go on to pursue postsecondary education. Overall public school enrollment is not expected to increase in the next 10 years. This can be attributed to the steady replacement of high school graduates with new families with younger children and the lack of new additional housing units in town. Income Haddonfield residents generally commute to other communities for work with many commuting daily to Philadelphia, Trenton and Camden. Per capita income in 2000 was $43,170 as compared to the state per capita income of $27,006. Median household income in 2000 was $86,872 compared to the state median of $55,146 and average household income in 2000 was $110,968. Barely 2.2% of the population lives below the poverty line as compared to 10.4% in all of Camden County. Community Needs Assessment Three methods were used to gather information about the Haddonfield community s preferences for library service and space. Eleven focus groups were held between October 2007 and January 2008 An online users survey conducted over the course of 30 days in January and February 2008 A town meeting held in January 2008 Focus Groups and Town Meeting Haddonfield residents were invited to participate in one of several focus groups and a town meeting where the topic was the Haddonfield Public Library. The consultants used these meetings to explore participants current level of satisfaction and dissatisfaction with library services and programs, seek their ideas about the future role of the HPL, hear their thoughts about what it would take to create an ideal library, learn more about their current use of the HPL as well as other area libraries, and discuss their willingness to support the library in the future. More than 150 people attended one of the focus group sessions and another 75 attended the town meeting. Focus group discussions provide community residents with a forum to voice their concerns and participate in the library s planning process. The qualitative information gathered during the focus group sessions provides library planners with information that can be used to make decisions about the library s future. 6

9 Focus group participants were recruited primarily by the Library Board of Trustees, Friends of the Library, Borough Board of Commissioners, library staff and Borough Administrator and by advertising the opportunity to participate in the local press and library, on its website. Individuals were recruited for the focus groups which included older adults, educators, community leaders (business, civic, religious, elected), students, residents concerned about local history and preservation issues, general public, parents, library board, friends and library volunteers, and library staff. All groups were well attended with participants actively contributing to the discussion and remaining engaged for the entire session. Residents welcomed the opportunity to participate and were appreciative that they had been asked to attend. Topics explored with each of the focus groups included: The role of the library in contributing to the quality of life in Haddonfield, with a particular emphasis on the library s role in the community A discussion about which libraries they use and why An assessment of the strengths of the HPL as well as areas in which it could improve A brainstorming exercise to describe their ideal library A discussion about the kinds of things that should be included in a modern library and the type of programs and services the library should offer The community s willingness to support library service now and in the future One thing would they would like to change about the HPL Community Conversation: Town Meeting In January 2008 the project consultants held an open town meeting, billed as a Community Conversation about the Library, with Haddonfield residents. Notices of this meeting were advertised in the local press, through community flyers posted in the library and around town, and on the town and library s web site. The town meeting differed from the focus group sessions in that all residents were invited to attend without registration. Those attending were invited to provide oral testimony in order to share their thoughts and concerns about the library. Speakers comments reflected a wide array of opinions about the Haddonfield Public Library, ranging from two residents who suggested that the local library is no longer needed, could be closed and that Haddonfield residents could go to other area libraries. But most testifiers took the view that the library is a critical resource in the community requiring thoughtful decision making as to how to make it better or whether or not it should be replaced. Many speakers urged library planners to develop a compelling vision for the HPL s future, as it had in the past, and to focus on delivering library services that 7

10 the community needs in the 21 st century in a quality library space. Comments about free and equal access to this shared resource were common as speakers grappled with the idea of providing library service in the present facility. Library User Opinion Survey The focus groups and community conversation were complemented by a library user opinion survey that was posted on the library s web site for four weeks. The survey was publicized on the Borough and library s website and in the local papers. The survey consisted of 13 closed ended questions along with an opportunity for additional written comments in Time Spent in Library 2% 4% 6% response to several questions. Four hundred and fifty (450) individuals responded to the 27% survey, 97% of whom have library cards. More than 61% 200 people offered comments. It is worthwhile to note the amount of time 5 min. or less 5 to 30 min. 30 min to 1 hour 1 hour + other that users report spending in the library. According to this chart, 4% of all respondents report spending more than 1 hour in the library on their visits. Only 27% report spending 30 minutes to an hour. An overwhelming 61% of the respondents indicated that they spend 5 to 30 minutes in the library, based on this response. Based on this response the implication is that the Haddonfield Public Library is primarily a place to run an errand, rather than a place to linger, browse and engage with the community. The library appears to be a popular place among library users with 46% of the respondents reporting visiting the library at least monthly. When asked what other amenities, on a multiple choice list, they thought the library needed, the top five responses were: 1. Comfortable chairs 46% 2. Access for people with disabilities 32% 3. More parking 32% 4. Snack or coffee area 30% 5. More computers 24% 8

11 There were 74 other written comments offered in this section in which people mentioned specific enhancements to the library s space including improved community meeting space, a modern children s area, a teen area, general updating, a large, open study area, private group study rooms, restrooms equipped for children and the handicapped, and an elevator. Based on the survey results there is widespread satisfaction with many of the services and collections that the library currently provides. Respondents appreciate the library and its staff with 85% of the respondents indicating that the staff is good or great. They suggest that the library continue to improve its services to the public because these services are needed. Over 200 respondents, who said they have used the new Cherry Hill Public Library, Camden County Library and other area libraries, shared their reasons for using other area libraries. Among the reasons cited in the survey responses for using other area libraries are: I use Cherry Hill Public Library a lot because of the meeting rooms, café, large reference area, number of computers and go to programs there. The collection is lacking in Haddonfield. It s also uncomfortable to work there for extended periods of time. They have books I can t find in Haddonfield. I like to work in a quiet comfortable space. Mostly for children s books and programs. More open spaces to sit and meet with people, more things for my children to do with newer, cleaner supplies. Overall, the reasons for using other libraries were split evenly between preferring a more comfortable and accessible environment including quiet areas and study space and enjoying a newer, broader collection for adult and children s materials. From the overall comments there is a general sense that the library doesn t meet contemporary standards and expectations for modern library service thus prompting some Haddonfield residents to seek library service elsewhere. A small number of people also stated that they never use another library besides the Haddonfield Public Library. Generally speaking, the survey results indicate no overall dissatisfaction with the library s continuing progress in providing services or with the staff. In fact, staff is seen as a very positive part of the Haddonfield Public Library experience. However, there are issues which prompt greater dissatisfaction, especially areas relating to the building and more specifically: 9

12 Lack of parking Access to the whole facility regardless of physical ability Comfort and cleanliness of the library Plentiful comfortable seating Restroom access Interior signs Air quality and odors Adequacy of interior and exterior lighting Ease of using the library with strollers Lack of meeting space Lack of children s programming space Facility maintenance and care Survey respondents offered almost 700 comments in response to open ended questions in the survey. These questions explored the following topics: Their opinions as to why previous attempts to improve the library were unsuccessful. Immediate changes that are needed at the HPL Comments and suggestions with regard to needed improvements at the library The comments addressed issues relating to the library s collections, services, staff, and the facility. The specific survey comments are available in the library. 5 Summary of Results 6 Participants have high praise for the staff and the Director, Susan Briant. They feel that the staff knows them and their family by name and is welcoming. The Director is credited by participants with the growing popularity of the library and especially the growing teen use. Many of the participants agreed on the following main ideas: 1. The Haddonfield Public Library is an important asset of the community. Participants view the library as one of the public centers of life for Haddonfield residents and an important local public space where people can come together to enjoy and connect with each other. 2. The Haddonfield Public Library is an oasis of intergenerational activity by residents. Participants speak highly of the local school system and believe the library reflects the same excellence and community involvement. The 5 See the Haddonfield Public Library user survey report in the library 6 Summary of focus groups, user survey and town meeting 10

13 library is seen as a public space for all Haddonfield residents. The library is viewed as a shared resource for the increasing population of older residents and young families and children. 3. The Haddonfield Public Library building is undersized and inaccessible for the current and future amount of use it gets by residents. The library has long ago reached a critical juncture in its ability to serve the community s interests due to its size, inaccessible areas to some and its growing popularity. 4. The Haddonfield Public Library needs a new facility to create a comfortable and safe environment to serve the growing needs of local residents. Participants of all ages and backgrounds agree that the library needs to expand to serve distinct user interests and provide a comfortable and safe environment for all ages and for all regardless of ability. Library Roles and Responses Participants discussed the expected service roles for the library. Among the top roles that residents expect from the library include the following: Community Engagement Haddonfield is a community that prides itself on stability. There was general agreement among the groups on several important roles the library can play in supporting the quality of life in Haddonfield. Haddonfield residents consider the library to be an important part of the community both now and in the future. They see the library playing a role that is less traditional than just the book lending role typically associated with libraries and more focused on its ability to bring people together to support civic engagement and lifelong learning, two important Haddonfield values. This trend was evident in the survey and the Community Conversation as well. Speakers at the town meeting questioned the traditional role of the library, and asked for a blend between the traditional and new roles requesting that the Board and Town look to expand library roles to meet current and more modern needs. As Haddonfield plans for its library s future it should carefully consider the following roles that the community believes are most important for the library: A Learning Place. Lifelong learning is essential in today s dynamic world. People will change careers many times throughout their lifetime. Students need help beyond the school day to ensure educational success. Libraries play an important role in providing the resources print, audio and electronic that enables people of all ages to learn, relearn, and retool in order to be productive and contributing members of society. 11

14 An Information Hub and Technology Center. The days of the library as the single source of information are gone and what remains is the trust associated with information obtained from library resources and staff. Focus group participants agree that the library will continue to play an important role in this area for the foreseeable future and that it can help improve technology literacy and the ability to find information on the Web for people in the community. People are looking to the library for instruction in the use of new technologies as well as for technological resources. The Community Connection. In today s cyber based information world people are still seeking places where they can interact face to face with others in the community. From teens to seniors, residents agreed that the library can play an important role in providing the space needed to facilitate cross generational interaction, becoming the main hub for the community and a desirable destination. From hosting informal, leisurely conversations to participation in more formal library sponsored programs or events, to casual interaction with a library staff member, each type of interaction contributes to a positive library experience. Increasingly people are seeking stronger connections to the people who live and work in their own community. The Haddonfield Public Library can be a key player in facilitating those connections. A Center for Literacy. Educational research indicates that reading to children at an early age improves their chances for educational success. Haddonfield residents believe that the library has an essential role to play in promoting a love of reading and supporting pre literacy and early literacy among the community s children. Reading programs offered by the library support the school s educational curriculum and ensure that children go to school ready to read or retain their reading skills during school breaks. A Source of Civic Pride. Communities that choose to invest in libraries through improvements in the collection, staffing, programs and services or in new buildings see dramatic increases in use and public support. The values embodied in a community s investment in its library education, learning, and community building ultimately become a source of civic pride and one of the many reasons that people choose to live in a community. Many Haddonfield residents believe that an investment in creating a 21 st century library is one that is worth considering because it will create a renewed focus and identify for the community. Preserving the Past. Local history is important to the Haddonfield community. Residents see the library as a place to appreciate and learn about local history and an institution that preserves the record of the community and makes it more accessible. 12

15 Haddonfield Public Library Space Assessment Current Space The Haddonfield Public Library consists of approximately 12,000 square feet on two floors or three levels including the mezzanine area. The mezzanine provides 1,800 square feet, the main level 4,900 square feet and the basement level 4,320 square feet. The remaining square footage is non assignable space including the entrance, hallways, stairwells, restrooms and mechanical areas throughout the building. Table three provides a summary of the existing library space and areas in need of improvement. Table Three Haddonfield Public Library Existing Space Inventory Functional Area Good Needs Immediate Comments Improvement Attention New books X X Area for display too small Magazines and adult reading X X Lack of seating area for comfortable reading Media X X Lack of space for current collection Display (books, media, etc) X X Lack space for effective displays Quiet Study X X No quiet study area General Seating X X Limited seating Reference Area X X Need lower shelves Children s Area X X Needs more seating, more shelving, computers reserved for children, modern story area, more child friendly environment and staff work space Teen Area X X Now creating a designated space for teens Community meeting space X Need a variety of meeting spaces Service Desk X Staff work space X X Lacks privacy Lighting X X Noise X X Needs better acoustic control Handicapped Accessibility X X Poor not accessible to many people Technology X X Need more computers 13

16 General Observations Before making recommendations about the type of space that might be needed to accommodate library programs and services for the next years, the consultants spent time assessing the current space and observing how people were using the library. The results of this effort are the following comments: User Seating The Haddonfield Public Library currently offers 95 user seats (most of which are wooden) scattered throughout its 3 levels. This includes 20 seats in the magazine, newspaper and reference area, 14 in the local history room, 16 at computers or tables, and 14 seats in all of the children s area. A visual inspection of the library during a typical afternoon found many seats occupied and all computer seats occupied. The furniture, much of which is now decades old, is less than functional in today s library environment in which users are requesting less institutional furnishings and more comfortable seating and a variety of seating options to accommodate different functions. Due to the library s size and layout, noise travels easily throughout the main level and there is not enough or the right type of seating in the library to accommodate children, teens and adults simultaneously. In planning for the future the library needs to increase the amount of user seating and offer users of all ages a wide choice of options including: Study tables with power ports to accommodate quiet study Individual study carrels with low sides and backs and power ports Comfortable chairs in the adult browsing and magazine areas Teen friendly furniture such as chairs that can be easily moved for new groupings and non traditional seats such as stools Child friendly furniture, scaled to the size of younger children Computer work stations that accommodate one or two users at a time Collection Space The Haddonfield Public Library has a collection of materials selected to respond to community needs. Library staff continuously remove worn, outdated and infrequently used titles. Despite their best efforts the library lacks adequate space to accommodate the current collection and to allow for small growth of new titles and formats. Shelves are filled with books, inhibiting the casual browsing that some people enjoy. The result is confusing to users resulting in frustration and materials that are used less frequently than desired because of their inaccessibility. There is currently little opportunity to create displays or merchandise in demand collections. Desirable features for shelving the collection in a new library include: 14

17 Shelving heights that do not exceed inches with a commitment to keep the top shelves free of material, 48 shelves for reference materials, 48 shelving for children s fiction and non fiction, and 42 shelving or book bins for the youngest readers Sloped shelving for the bottom shelves so browsers can easily see the titles of books on the lower shelves Slat wall panels on the end of each book stack for face out display of library materials Magazine display units similar to those found in newsstands or book stores Media display units that provide for face out display of CDs, DVDs, Audiobooks and Playaways Display tables for merchandising high demand titles or featured collections Magazine and New Book Area Many libraries find that much of their circulation can be attributed to items in their new book area. Library users gravitate to the newest items with a desire to read best sellers as well as other books that are being talked about by their friends, on TV and in the press. Once new materials are shelved with older items in the collection their circulation drops. The library s new book area is small and it limits the number of books that can be featured in this area. Due to this, it is difficult for a browser to comfortably navigate this space. Features to include in the new book and browsing area are: Custom designed shelving that allows for display of high demand materials and to increase the space for these materials Magazine display units that allow for easy access and comfortable table and upholstered seating Reading areas that invite adults to spend time comfortable chairs grouped around a window view Children s Area One of the features that many patrons like least about the Haddonfield Public Library is the inability for adults to allow their children to have some freedom in the basement library space while they may be in another area. The children s area is inaccessible to many people with disabilities and inaccessible to strollers and wheelchairs. Children with disabilities fare poorly in the basement due to the very restrictive environment. The new library should include: 15

18 A self contained children s room for children ranging from infant to 6 th grade with walls or soundproof material to separate this area from the rest of the floor, yet allow for visual supervision An area where pre school children and their parents can explore books together Child sized seating and a variety of options little tables and chairs, intermediate sized tables and chairs, chalk tables, picture book tables, loveseats for parent child reading, small moveable benches or bean bag seats A computer cluster reserved for children and tables with data and power ports Low book shelves, display areas, picture book bins Gallery space for display of children s materials A story and crafts area for story hours, storytelling events and special programs just for kids (in this program it is part of the community meeting room) Teen Area The Haddonfield Public Library does not have an area designated for pre teens and teens. The library is currently creating a new teen space on the main floor adjacent to the stairwell. The fact that some teens find their way to the library, consider it a welcoming space and are willing to spend time after school and into the evening hours is a very good development for Haddonfield families and for all of Haddonfield. The new library needs to include space specifically for teens an area away from adults and children, yet readily visible to the library staff and easily supervised. This area should have: Space for pre teens and teens to relax and chat with their friends without bothering other library users Comfortable seating designed to meet the needs of teens An area to house the teen collection of books and AV materials A bank of computers reserved for teens in an Internet café type of environment Public Service Area The public service desk is at the heart of the current library. In a new library, a well designed full service area can possibly function as the central service point for circulation, and all adult services, including research and reference. The reference and research function of libraries is changing rapidly. Large print reference collections that accounted for a significant use of library space in the past are now being replaced by digital content and a much smaller but focused reference collection. The need for public access computers to provide library users with access to digital content is essential in a new library. 16

19 Serving the Older Adult Population Older adults served by the library can come to enjoy its social atmosphere. For many who live alone interacting with staff, chatting about books, spending an hour or two with magazines and newspapers may be their only social interaction of the day. Unfortunately, because of space constraints, most adults can not browse or spend extended time in the current library in comfort. The new library needs to incorporate space that will allow adults, children and teens to coexist in the library. The new library should: Include an adult reading area separate from the children and teen areas so adults can read in an undisturbed environment Offer computers that are reserved for adults Provide additional space for large print books and audio books Provide adaptive technology that provides for larger computer monitors to assist those with poor eyesight and listening devices for the hearing impaired Program and Community Meeting Space The library has one meeting room that can accommodate up to 35 people. The space is used for library sponsored events as well as community events. This space is also used for children s programs. This space is too small and inaccessible to accommodate the level of programming currently offered and the activities desired by the community and staff. There are few alternatives available for a group that might need to have a smaller or larger space for a meeting. There is no storage for chairs and tables that may not be in use. The room lacks an up to date audiovisual system, comfortable and efficient furniture and lighting to serve as an adequate modern meeting space. Today s library users are seeking a variety of meeting spaces which require a room for a large meeting and sometimes space that can accommodate a group as small as 4 6 people. We recommend the following type of meeting space in the new library: A community meeting room that can accommodate up to 100 people audience style and which may be available for use after library hours. The ability to subdivide the room so that children s story times and arts and crafts programs can be held there as well. An attached kitchen facility will be needed. The meeting space can be designed so that gallery space is available on its interior and exterior walls for exhibits of local artists works. Modern technology will need to be available in the meeting room to facilitate group meetings using smart boards and other tools. 17

20 Technology The Haddonfield Public Library currently provides 11 computer workstations for public use. These computers are often busy with people and at times there is a wait for computer time. We recommend that the number of computers be increased in the new library to at least 30 with computers specifically designated for children and teens and computers reserved for adults. Other technology features that should be integrated into the library design include: A wireless network that allows users to obtain access to the Internet if they have a laptop or loan one from the library Tables equipped with power outlets to allow people to bring their own laptops to the library and gain access to a high speed Internet connection A portable technology training center using a laptop garage for training in the community room 18

21 A New Library for Haddonfield Based on the feedback from the community survey, the focus groups, town meeting and staff interviews we have developed space recommendations for a new Haddonfield Public Library. The comments we heard from the community indicate that the debate is not how to modernize and reuse the existing structure but rather where and when to build a new library. The consultants believe that the best option for library service in Haddonfield is to remove the existing building and replace it with a modern, energy efficient, highly functional new library. Design Recommendations Our approach to evaluating the Haddonfield Public Library began first with the needs assessment what the community is saying they want in their public library. Interviews with library staff, an analysis of use statistics, and assessment of the current conditions helped guide our recommendations for building a new library. We recommend that the library be rebuilt in its current location for lack of other available and affordable options in Haddonfield. We have noted previously that a variety of library sizes have been discussed with the Haddonfield community over the years. There have been size recommendations ranging from 27,000 to 31,000 gross square feet to accommodate a projected collection of upwards of 130,000 to 150,000 books and AV materials. The consultants have taken the previous recommendations into consideration and recommend a more modestly sized library building. It is based on a smaller collection size than any previous study, in fact, almost one third the size of the 1994 study. The need for seating is also less as the new meeting room can double for user seating and children s programs during the day. These two changes have reduced the projected size. A section entitled, Contemporary Options is included to detail options that many residents desire in a library but are not included in the basic functional area summary. These Contemporary Options can be added to the library program when the Library Board and Town Commissioners agree that these are desirable enhancements to the library. 7 The consultants recommend building a basic new library of 22,355 square feet to provide new areas for teens and children, expanded service areas for adults and more community meeting space. The estimated optimal total collection size growth for this library is between 65,000 to 80,000 total items. This space should be allocated as indicated on Table Four on the following page. 7 The 1994 study and a more recent review in 2001 recommended 174 public seats plus at least 100 meeting room seats. This plan estimates slightly more seats than exist today, roughly 125 to 150 compared to 99, excluding the meeting room seating. 19

22 Table Four Haddonfield Public Library Program Functional Area Summary Functional Area A Future Area sq. ft. B Future User Seats* Entry Foyer/Entry/Book Return 300 Café/Bookstore/Gift Shop Service Desk/Reference and 750 Circulation subtotal: 1050 Adult Browsing Adult Media Electronic Resources/Reference/Local History 1, Computer Training Center Non Fiction/Fiction Book Stacks 5,000 8 Reading and Magazines Large Print Historical Collection and Archives Quiet Study(small meeting rooms) Reference Office Adult Totals: 9, Teen Area & Homework Help Center Children's Services Service Desk Reference, Study & Magazines Picture Books and Easy Readers 1, Non fiction/fiction Book Stacks 1, Children's Media 300 Arts & Crafts Children s Office & Storage Teen/Children's Totals: 4, Support and Outreach Services Community Program/Meeting * Room/Storytime Technical/Processing Services 500 Network Center/Technology Support 300 Director's Office 150 Administrative Services 250 Book Sale/Volunteers Office 20

23 Staff Lounge 400 Receiving/Custodial/Storage 350 subtotal: 2,950 Total Library 17,884 Non Assignable Area 4,471 Grand Totals: 22, *100 Community Room seats are not included in the above total The preceding information provides an estimate of the components and square footage for a new library or total library space based on the current population size and an estimated population size for the next 25 years. The estimated square footage and service components owe much to the Connecticut State Library s Library Space Planning Worksheet and the Illinois State Library s Avenues to Excellence for Public Library Service. In 1964 the American Library Association created a standard of.7 square feet of library space per capita. The significant changes that have occurred in communities and libraries in the past 40 years have indicated a more flexible standard when analyzing library space. The Haddonfield Public Library does not meet modern standards for its current population. 21

24 Initial Estimate of Costs and Funding Assuming a finished library of approximately 22,355 square feet, we developed the following cost estimate for the project. These costs may be further adjusted depending on final designs developed by the architect, choice of building materials and furnishings and other variables (such as building a one or multiple story facility) that are unpredictable at this time. The chart is intended to provide an estimate of costs to build a new library without knowing all the variables at this time. Costs will usually escalate between 5 7% per year. 8 Table Five Sq. Feet Estimated Cost New functional space 17,884 $300/sf* $5,365,200 Non assignable space 4,471 $275/sf** $1,229,525 Grand total space 22,355 $6,584,725 Architect s Fee 10% $ 658,000 Legal/consultants $ 100,000 Fundraising expenses $ 50,000 Telecommunications/Data $100,000 Miscellaneous $150,000 Demolition $250,000 Contingency 5% $394,500 Estimated total $8,287,225 *Includes furniture, finishes and equipment ** new unfurnished space Funding for the Haddonfield Public Library building project can be secured through a combination of public and private support. If the Borough decides to move forward with the project it should determine what portion of the total cost town residents are willing to support through a municipal bond. The gap between municipal support and the total cost of the library should be covered through private donations. A fundraising campaign that solicits significant contributions including opportunities to name specific areas of the building should be undertaken. Conclusion The Haddonfield Public Library is a highly valued community resource that continues to demonstrate its importance to Haddonfield through the programs, resources and staff it provides. Library use is again increasing as the staff has worked to greatly improve print, audio and video collections, offer more 8 A two or more story facility will increase the amount of non assignable space due to stairwells and elevator shafts 22

25 programs, and create a more attractive and welcoming environment. Since the library is easy to get to (though difficult to use) and has very accessible hours, it attracts residents who might find other area libraries too large and intimidating. This is especially true for many older residents and parents of young children. The Haddonfield Public Library is the first library experience for most Haddonfield children. The Haddonfield children and teens who find a safe haven at the library will develop a lifetime commitment to reading and learning because of the wonderful experiences they have there. The typical life span of a library is approximately 25 years. After that time, it is necessary to reassess space, consider areas that are in need of improvement and updating and take action to ensure that the library facility has the capacity to support the library s vision and mission in serving the community. Now is the time to look ahead and consider what needs to happen next to ensure that this important community resource is well positioned to serve the needs of the next generation of library users. We believe that the recommendations included in this report will ensure that a new library building is accessible and responsive to the community s needs for many years to come. 23

26 Library Program The building program narrative describes the type of features that should be incorporated in a new building for the Haddonfield Public Library. In designing the building, the architect should consider these suggestions along with the details contained in the functional area specifications to help inform the design process. The consultants have provided a minimum functional estimate for a new Haddonfield Public Library. The section entitled, Contemporary Options includes specific building options that can enhance the basic library program, at additional space and cost. These contemporary options reflect services that are often present in modern public libraries. Collaboration with the Haddonfield Historical Society for space may be particularly important in a new library, according to some of the participants in the focus groups. Exterior Requirements Architectural Character In a new library building, one of the architect s challenges is to design a facility that blends with the architectural character of the neighborhood as well as with the character of Haddonfield. The Haddonfield Public Library is a much loved icon in the community with its recognizable entrance and warm and inviting atmosphere. It s clear from the focus groups and survey that any new library facility will need to reflect Haddonfield s sensibilities and character in design. Utilize the Existing Site or New Site A new building on the existing site should be designed to take maximum advantage of the existing lot. Consideration should be given to incorporate the best views of the outside area into the design, to take advantage of natural daylight and using the greenery in front to maximum advantage. A new building on another site can be much more flexible in adapting to the needs of a new modern library. Exterior Signage The library should be easily identifiable by those approaching the library by foot and by car. There should be at least two signs identifying the library one at the entrance to the parking area or at the end of the block the library is on and the other at the entrances to the building. If allowed, exterior signage should be illuminated during the evening hours. Landscape and Site Features Care should be taken in landscaping the library s exterior. Large trees that block sight lines between the street and library entrance should be avoided. Street parking and any other accommodation to parking for a new library site should be sufficient to guide people from the parking area to the library during evening hours, but not bothersome to neighbors. Parking 24

27 Parking can be a critical factor for the many people who may drive to the library. There must be adequate parking on site, or on neighboring streets, that are convenient to the library entrance. If the new library is in a new location, people using a library parking lot should not have to climb steps or travel a great distance to reach the front entrance. Provision should be made for short term parking, in a lot or on the street, for those who may be dropping a passenger off or picking a passenger up from the Library. Driveways to and from the parking lot need to accommodate both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The library and parking lot may also need to accommodate a drive up book return in a separate lane of traffic. Specific features for a parking lot should include: Separate driveway entrance and exit Short term parking if it can be enforced Handicapped accessible parking spaces Staff parking that is farther away from the building Entrances Public Entrance A main public entrance should be easily accessible from the street or parking lot. The entrance should be inviting and welcoming to all users. The entrance offers library patrons their first glimpse of the library and should entice them into the building to explore and browse. The entry vestibule should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing in its design. If possible, someone driving or walking by the library should be able to determine from the entrance if the library is open or closed. The functional role of the entrance is to serve as a transitional space between the library s interior and the outside weather. If possible, the entrance should have two sets of doors an interior and exterior set to provide a higher degree of energy efficiency. The entrance doors should be easy to operate through the use of power assists or automatic doors that are motion sensitive. The doors and all entrance and egress must comply with ADA requirements. The public entrance should include flooring that assists in the removal of dirt, mud and snow from the shoes of those entering the building and include a trash receptacle so patrons can dispose of their trash before entering the library. Staff Entrance The staff entrance should be clearly marked staff only. Depending on the library design, this entrance may also be used for deliveries and loading and receiving. A doorbell or buzzer should be located near the entrance so the staff will be alerted when deliveries are ready for unloading. A keyless lock or card reader system should be used to allow staff to enter and exit the building. The library s security system panel should also be located adjacent to this entrance so it can be armed and disarmed by staff entering and leaving the building. 25