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The DC Public Library is undergoing a transformation that includes services, programs, collections, and buildings. From a capital construction perspective, the Library is addressing facility needs across the system. This includes new library construction, interior and exterior renovations, opening interim libraries to serve neighborhoods during library renovation and reconstruction projects, and other projects such as restroom renovations and signage improvements.
As part of this transformation, the Library developed a new comprehensive Library Building Program that will best meet the needs of residents now and in the future. This Program outlines the various elements including collection size and range, seating capacity, technology and other aspects of providing library services to a community. While the Program is modified to fit the particular needs of each community, the basic features it outlines help guide the Library as it works toward creating state-of-the art libraries across the city.
Building Four New Libraries
The Library is in the process of rebuilding four neighborhood libraries–Anacostia, Benning, Tenley-Friendship, and Watha T. Daniel-Shaw. The old buildings have been razed and library services currently are being provided by interim facilities in the four neighborhoods. The architecture firm of Davis, Brody, Bond Aedas is designing the Benning and Watha T. Daniel/Shaw libraries. The Freelon Group is designing the Anacostia and Tenley-Friendship libraries. Designs for these new libraries are nearing completion. Design images can be viewed by selecting the links to the right.
Construction of the four new libraries is scheduled to begin in late summer 2008 and should be completed by the end of 2009. The new libraries will open their doors to the public in the spring of 2010.
Community Input
Community input is an important part of creating new libraries. Beginning with the selection of the architectural teams, the Library has a process for involving the community throughout the design phase. The selection panels for architecture teams for all Library construction projects have included at least two community representatives as well as independent consultants to help evaluate the qualifications of the firms that responded to the Request for Proposals.
As part of the design process, the Library has hosted a series of community meetings in each neighborhood to solicit input into the design of each building and to keep the residents informed as the design progresses. For more information about each library and the community meetings please visit the links at right.
Green Building Design
The Library is incorporating sustainable building features into the design of all new construction. The Library will seek LEED Certification of at least Silver for all new library projects. While specific energy efficient features will vary by location, they include elements such as raised floors for optimized air circulation, green roofs or white roofs, sun screens, and the use of materials with high recycled content, as well as site specific features.
Additional New Construction
This fall, the Library will begin design work to replace two additional libraries– Francis A. Gregory Neighborhood Library in Ward 7 and Washington Highlands Neighborhood Library in Ward 8. Please visit the links to the right to learn more about these two projects.
Other Construction Projects
In addition to these projects, the Library is undertaking a number of other renovation and reconstruction projects across the city. Please visit the links to learn more about the many projects underway. |
