When entering a library, you expect to find the typical resources such as books, CDs, magazines, computers and programs and activities.
A system-wide makeover of the Cuyahoga County Public Library branches has been improving upon these standards over the past three years.
Out of 27 branches, 18 have plans to or have already been renovated or replaced.
Hallie Rich, marketing and communications director at the Cuyahoga County Public Library, says that since 2012, the system has replaced seven branches including Warrensville Heights, Olmsted Falls, Mayfield, North Royalton, Garfield Heights, Parma and Parma-Snow.
“The replacement of our Orange Branch will be complete near the end of 2014, and the South Euclid-Lyndhurst Branch project will be complete in 2015,” she says. “Eight renovation projects (Solon, Fairview Park, Beachwood, Chagrin Falls, Independence, Southeast, Maple Heights and Brook Park) will be complete by the end of 2014.”
The project — which was part of the system’s Facilities Master Plan and funded through capital funds, private donations and a sale of $75 million in notes — helped bring the library system up-to-date. The project didn’t require any additional taxpayer funding.
“The new and renovated buildings across the Cuyahoga County Public Library system reflect the changing needs of library customers in the 21st century,” Rich says. “ We recognize that libraries also serve as a place where the community comes together, so our branches are designed with more flexible meeting room space. We have included drive-up windows in many of our building projects to make it as easy as possible for our customers to pick up and return material.”
Technology Advances
With the upgrades to the branches, the library was able to beef up their technology.
“We have doubled the number of public access computers in many of our new buildings,” Rich says. “Our buildings are better equipped to meet demand for computers and high-speed broadband access. All Cuyahoga County Public Library branches greater than 15,000 square feet also now offer a full gigabit Internet connection.”
There were also options to go “green” during many of the library projects.
“All of the replacement building projects are designed and built to LEED standards,” Rich says. “This means we incorporated energy efficiency strategies, recycled material, efficient water systems and more into each of our projects. Our Parma-Snow Branch features an accessible green roof that offers customers a place to sit, read or even enjoy an outdoor program.
“All of the new replacement buildings have seen an increase in both circulation and visits since opening,” she adds. “In fact, we had 1,000-3,000 people at every grand opening event. Each community has expressed excitement and enthusiasm over the new features in their branch.”
Spaces for Children
Not only did the technology advance, so did the areas where children can explore, read and play. The systems created spaces that feature exhibits and activity stations specifically designed to build early literacy skills.
“Some spaces include large murals and designs from picture books (Rosemary Wells’ ‘Mother Goose,’ Ashley Bryan’s ‘Let It Shine,’ Keith Baker’s ‘LMNO Peas’) while others involve themes, such as Fairview Park Branch’s travel-themed children’s area, Garfield Heights Branch’s manufacturing theme or Olmsted Falls Branch’s train theme,” Rich says.
“The renovation projects vary in scope, although many include new/updated children’s Play, Learn & Grow areas, expanded computer access, more browsing-friendly layouts and enhanced meeting room space,” she adds.