Study Purpose
To evaluate service constraints associated with the existing Woodlawn branch
To consult with library users and the community concerning current and future needs
To recommend a preferred option for an expansion or replacement library of 12,000 sq. ft.
To evaluate potential sites and recommend a preferred site
To develop a functional space program
To establish preliminary capital costs and implementation plan
Library Design / Development
Contemporary Libraries Are: Focal Points in the Community Accessible, Comfortable, Welcoming High Profile, Attractive, Visible Multi-Service Providers Centres for Technology and Innovation Part of an Active Service Hub Focused on Customer Service Efficient to Operate, Convenient to Use
Study Considerations
The Best Location to Serve Current and Future Users
Population Growth/Changes in Communities Served by the Woodlawn Library
Available Locations and Possible Development Partners
Changing Library Needs and Interests
Changing Expectations of Users
Design Principles
Operationally Efficient Design
Designed to Maximize User Convenience, Flexibility and Multiple Uses
Designed for the Seamless Integration of Technology
Designed as an Accessible, Attractive and Welcoming Community Hub
Designed for Sustainability
Shortlisted Locations
Initial Shortlist (Summer ‘08)
Woodlawn Mall
Penhorn Mall
Additional Site (Fall ‘08 – Previously Unavailable)
Empire Theatre
Comparative Site Evaluation Criteria
Process to rank remaining sites Criteria
– Access (Weight = Medium, 2)
– Visibility (Weight = Medium, 2)
– Compatible Use (Weight = Low, 1)
– Centrality (Weight = High, 3)
– Major Partnership Potential (Weight = Low, 1)
– Distance from Other Branches (Weight = High, 3)
– Complementary Use (Weight = High, 3)
Scoring– 3,2,1,0 (3 = fulfils the criteria, 0 = not at all)
What We’ve Been Up To
Detailed examination of short-listed sites
Negotiations with landlords
Architectural / Mechanical / Electrical Plans developed
Notification to staff and landlord
Comparative Evaluation Results
Access Weight = 2
Visibility Weight = 2
Compatible Use
Weight = 1
Centrality Weight = 3
Partner Weight = 1
Distance from Other Branches Weight = 3
Comple-mentary
Uses Weight = 3
Score
Empire Theatre
3
6
2
4
3
3
2
6
0
0
2
6
3
9
15
34
Penhorn Mall
3
6
3
6
3
3
1
3
1
1
1
3
3
9
15
31
Woodlawn Mall
Option 2
2
4
2
4
2
2
2
6
0
0
2
6
3
9
13
31
Features for the New Library
17,700 square foot space for the Library; 6,000 square foot space for Collection Management
High quality stand-alone building 2 self-check out machines Defined areas for Children, Teens and Adults Large program room and 100-seat theatre Seating and study areas Indoor and outdoor book returns Free public parking; pedestrian and bus access Larger materials collection Computer Area
Next Steps
Final lease negotiation
Approval by the Halifax Regional Library Board and Municipal Council
Interior design and layout
Packing and moving
Time Line
May through September: Construction and renovations
October – Library installation and preparations for opening
November – Move in!