5-3 - MPL-25-013 Midtown Project MPL Bldg Program Narrative.pdf
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- Attached to
- Milwaukee Public Library - Midtown Project
- Solicitation number
- MPL-25-013
- Issued by
- Milwaukee County, Mattoon Village, Wisconsin
About this file
This document is a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) No. MPL-25-013 for the Milwaukee Public Library's Midtown Project, focusing on the development of a new branch library to replace the existing Capitol Branch Library. The project aims to create a technology-rich, flexible library space that serves as a community engagement center, with a vision of supporting learning, development, and neighborhood vibrancy. The RFQ outlines comprehensive requirements for the new library, including detailed specifications for building design, technology infrastructure, functional spaces, collections, and overall operational philosophy.
The proposed library will be located in the Capitol Branch Library's service area, which currently serves a population of approximately 73,336 (as of 2022), with a diverse demographic including significant African American, White, and Hispanic populations. The design emphasizes technological integration, self-service strategies, energy efficiency, and a commitment to reflecting African American cultural contributions, particularly highlighting Dr. Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights Movement. The facility will feature reduced physical collections in anticipation of increasing digital content, flexible spaces for community meetings and collaborative work, and a streamlined service model that allows staff to be more mobile and proactively engage with patrons. The project reflects the Milwaukee Public Library's broader organizational values of creating readers, anchoring healthy neighborhoods, and contributing to a strong community.
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RFQ No. MPL-25-013 Milwaukee Public Library – Midtown Project
BRANCH LIBRARY BUILDING PROGRAM
Midtown Branch October 2025
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
II. About Milwaukee Public Library
III. About Branch Library
IV. Vision for the Future
V. Building and IT Standards
VI. Functional Spaces
VII. Collection Description
VIII. Appendix
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I. Introduction
The guidelines and requirements outlined in this building program represent the culmination of several processes including library visioning and facilities planning meetings conducted at various points in time with community members and staff. The outcomes of those efforts and the resulting document, Rethinking Library Facilities for the 21st Century: Big Ideas to Strengthen the Milwaukee Public Library,” provided some inspiration for the contents herein. After using the program to help guide the successful execution of award-winning building projects, the program has been refined and honed into what has become the Milwaukee Public Library’s official Universal Building Program. This version of the program includes branch-specific details for the Midtown project.
Vision
MPL is an anchor institution that helps build healthy families and vibrant neighborhoods – the foundation of a strong Milwaukee.
Mission
Inspiration starts here – we help people read, learn, and connect
Organizational Values
Creating a City of Readers and Lifelong Learners 21st Century Literacies: Print, digital, financial, health
Anchoring Healthy and Vibrant Neighborhoods
Safe and connected, successful business districts, good quality of life, cultural respect
Contributing to a Strong Milwaukee Strong economy and job market, informed and educated workforce, thriving families
Workplace Values To meet the great expectations of our customers, these values guide, inspire, and nourish us:
PASSION, INNOVATION, AND EXCELLENCE
ABOUT MPL AND THE 2024 ANNUAL REPORT
https://www.mpl.org/about/
2024 Annual Report https://www.mpl.org/about/ https://indd.adobe.com/view/9147e173-02df-42af-9f86-14cc2c9966d2
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II. About Milwaukee Public Library
History The Milwaukee Public Library (MPL) dates to 1878 when the State Legislature on February 7 authorized the City to establish a public library, although its lineage can be traced back to 1847 and the organization of the Young Men’s Association, a subscription library which collected dues from its members. When it was established in 1878, the new public library took over the association’s rented quarters and the group’s collection of 10,000 volumes, many of them in German. After several moves and several fires, the library moved into a new, block –long limestone building in what is now 814 West Wisconsin Avenue. The original building which stands on this site was designed by Ferry & Clas of Milwaukee and opened in 1898, sharing the space with the Milwaukee Public Museum until the museum completed its move to its own building on West Wells Street in the mid-1960s. The addition to the library on the West Wells Street side opened in 1957. The new facilities included a Drive-Up service area and four fireproof levels of shelving below ground.
Over the years the library system expanded by establishing book depositories at several locations, including grocery stores, then eventually in rented store buildings. In the 1960s the library system began a program to replace the storefront libraries and build new large buildings throughout the city. Today there are 12 neighborhood libraries (branches) each of which serves a population of about 50,000.
Governance The Milwaukee Public Library is a department of the City of Milwaukee. The Library Director, who is the department head, is appointed by the Mayor and sits on the Mayor’s cabinet.
The general management, regulation and control of the Library is vested in a Board of Trustees, as established by Chapter 43 of the Wisconsin State Statutes. There are 12 members of the Board of Trustees; 5 citizen members and 3 alderpersons are appointed by the Mayor, and 1 alderperson by the President of the Common Council. Also serving are the Superintendent of the Milwaukee Public Schools and the President of the Board of School Directors, or their designees, and a representative of the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, appointed by the County Executive. The Board meets 9 times per year.
The Milwaukee Public Library is a member of the Milwaukee County Federated Library System, as are the other 14 public libraries in the County. Financed by state funds, the Federated System coordinates specific joint services, such as the shared library catalog and delivery services.
Services and Activities The Central Library provides reference, research, circulation services, collection development and support to the MPL system. It also performs duties related to its designation as the Milwaukee County Federated Library System’s Resource Library, in addition to providing Interlibrary Loan Services, Ready Reference, and Virtual Reference services. The 12 branch libraries and their services contribute to the well-being and vitality of the surrounding areas including local businesses, schools, and residents. The service
Page | 4 provides access to information resources in print and electronic format that enable the public to be better informed and active citizens, meet current informational needs, improve educational attainment, develop workforce skills, and find employment. The libraries provide an outlet for young people in the neighborhood to engage in productive and educational activities. Branch libraries provide general collections and professional assistance from librarians, including those specially trained to meet the needs of children and teens. The service contributes to education, small business development and growth, research interests, and quality of life. Traditional print library resources, as well as access to technology and the internet, along with trained library staff supports patrons in their efforts to improve their skills at their neighborhood branch locations. Library cards and virtual library accounts, which give residents access to collections, computers, and the virtual library databases and services, are issued daily to individuals and student groups. Provisions include:
• 47-49 hours per branch of access to reference and circulation services weekly
• Reference and librarian services (in-person), and access to telephone reference service through Central Library
• Daily assistance with computer and electronic resources, including access to over
240 laptops for in-house use, 500 hot spots and 300 Chromebooks at all locations
• Daily retrieval of library materials reserved through the online catalog
• Circulation services including check-out and return, shelving, and library card registration
• General collections for all ages
• Targeted collections for job searches and adult literacy
• Weekly story times for children along with other literacy-rich educational experiences for youth
• Experiential learning opportunities for teens, including internships and other paid positions
• Regular adult programming on educational themes including digital literacy, eco-literacy, health literacy, and financial literacy
• Community rooms (1 per library)
• Small Conference or Study Rooms
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III. About the Midtown Project - Branch Library Service Area
The Midtown Project will be located east of the current Capitol Library Branch and is slated to replace the Capitol Branch Library. Currently, the Capitol Branch serves an area roughly bound by Sherman Boulevard to the East, Silver Spring Avenue to the North and Wauwatosa to the West and South.
The Capitol Library Branch was opened in 1964 as the neighborhoods in this area filled out with post-war residential and commercial development.
The tables below contain demographic information on the Capitol Branch Library’s service area:
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IV. Vision for the Future
This library will be technology-rich in a highly flexible space that provides a forum for community engagement and serves as a center for learning and development. The operation will be streamlined, efficient, and use self-service strategies to free staff from passive stationary service points to support engagement with patrons within a proactive, mobile service model. The internal footprint of this library will reflect the changing methods of information delivery and use, and will be evidenced by a much smaller print collection and more space for community meetings, programs, and collaborative work. The interior design and artwork will reflect the contributions of local and national African- American leaders, thinkers, authors and artists with an emphasis on Dr. King and the Civil Rights Movement. The building will function efficiently in consuming both energy and human resources.
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V. Building and IT Standards
MPL’s requirements, goals and aspirations for the new facility are broadly defined here for each component.
1. Environmental Sustainability and Public Health
In addition to incorporating green building principles to improve human health and well-being, the design should incorporate processes and materials that minimize the environmental impact from construction through operation, maintenance and renovation.
The objective is to construct a high performance library with a healthy environment by:
-minimizing pollutants, using non-synthetic and non-toxic materials;
- using locally obtained and recycled materials whenever possible;
-installing energy efficient HVAC and lighting systems;
- using renewable energy sources when possible;
- integrating building layout with daylighting and natural light;
- using water saving plumbing fixtures;
- using permeable pavement or other similar materials for outside parking;
- landscaping that reduces water usage and incorporates outdoor seating;
- and using furnishings that meet ergonomic standards.
The Environmental Collaboration Office (ECO) for the City of Milwaukee will provide “Green Engineering” standards for many of the above listed items.
2. Accessibility
Design should ensure that all areas leading to and inside the library adhere to both the letter and spirit of accessibility for all. See notes regarding specific items in the appropriate sections, A review by ADA specialists at Independence First will be scheduled in consultation with the architect.
3. Exterior (in collaboration with Developer)
Presence – The ground plan, landscaping and lighting creates a “safe zone” using Crime
Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) or similar concepts to minimize incidences of vandalism, loitering, skateboarding, etc. Provide an exterior lighting system that is visually appealing and attractive, as well as enhances safety and security on library grounds.
Approach and Entry – Approaches are well-lit and in close proximity to parking, walkway and book return chute; a green space with attractive landscaping should be situated in close proximity. A flag pole must be incorporated in this area.
Book Returns – A protected area under a canopy and good lighting is needed to illuminate the area around the book drop, which needs to be adjacent to the materials handling workroom and connect to the automated return.
Parking –The Library’s lot will be well-lit with camera surveillance, above-ground parking for at least 40 vehicles with 2 - 3 spaces for handicapped users; controlled access from the street; close adjacency to the main entrance; negative adjacency to alleys and residential areas to deter walk-throughs and unwanted activity; trash receptacles
Page | 11 should be tamper resistant and complementary to the building design; incorporation of green space is desired.
Parking Signage – Provide signage that clearly directs drivers to lot entrance and exit and turning points; a separate sign indicates when the library is open or closed; camera surveillance signs.
Bicycle parking – Provide a clearly identified and secure area for parking a minimum of 12 bicycles with visibility from inside the library.
Deliveries – A loading zone is needed near the staff entrance for daily deliveries of equipment and materials—this should be directly adjacent to the materials handling area (circulation staff workroom).
Landscaping – Provides open “green” space; will be low maintenance and drought-resistant; and supports other goals outlined in this section; trash receptacles should be tamper resistant and complementary to the building design; possibly incorporate public art; seating, if provided, does not encourage sleeping or camping.
4. Interior, Public Areas
The vestibule will have space to share community information, including the free distribution of literature. This will be accomplished in the tidiest way possible. The lobby beyond will offer some express options for returns and interesting visuals upon entry.
The space between the vestibule and lobby areas must accommodate patron counter mechanisms and security gates.
Once in the library proper, the customer experience continues as visitors enter a welcoming and stimulating environment achieved through design and further facilitated by staff interaction. Staff will be highly mobile, offering assistance in a proactive manner instead of from a number of service desks, therefore, the number of service points is reduced to one, from the three currently in use.
In lieu of the fact that there will be only one service point, the facilitation of customer self-service is of the highest importance. Browsing will be facilitated with good signage and face-out displays in the collection areas and adequate space will be provided for self pick-up of holds and self-checkout. A single service point with good sightlines will be prominently featured for those needing assistance. The location of this component should be sufficiently distant from the lobby door to avoid creating congestion where patrons are attempting to enter the library proper at busy times.
As visitors move through the building, they will find many inviting areas of seating for study, computing, collaborating or reading, illuminated by natural daylight where possible and distinctive, ambient and task-oriented lighting where not. They will also be visually stimulated by art, creative lighting effects, and interesting materials and finishes of the highest durability and quality-price ratio (QPR). Regarding public art, the facility should be designed in such a way that easily allows for it to be well integrated, including consideration of using local artists representative of the vibrant African-American culture of the surrounding neighborhood.
Public restrooms must meet code for accessibility and should be located within sight of the single service point.
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5. Interior, Staff Areas
The design of the circulation staff area will dictate a logical, safe and efficient workflow for the team members. If incorporated into this project, the use of an automated sorter for book returns will result in staff members having fewer touches when handling materials. The space will require flexibility and openness as this area has many pieces of furniture on wheels such as the bins, trucks and depressibles. The materials handling area will need to have strong lighting, flooring appropriate for wheeled furniture, accommodate employees standing for prolonged periods, and materials that absorb the noise created by the sorting machinery.
Reference staff will need shared desk space away from the sorting room and public area to conduct program preparation as well as selection and deselection of materials all while being accessible via a communication system. This area will need ample storage for programming materials, supplies and project work. This area needs to be well lit and promote productivity.
Standards for work station sizes should be reviewed and applied accordingly.
One or two perches or mobile stations in the public area with a secure computer for access to the catalog, databases, computer reservation software, CountyCat, internet and communication system will successfully support the roving reference service model.
It is preferred that the manager’s office be near the single service point and has enough space for private, two person conferences.
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6. Signage and Graphics
General standards and conventions will apply with exceptions as appropriate. In the case of the latter, a unified graphic solution will be applied and digital signage will be used to the extent possible (indicated by “d” below). Lighting and signage placement should be considered together. Alternative languages and universal symbols should be used when possible to ensure that signs are comprehensible to the widest range of literacy levels.
Size, color, and placement will facilitate way-finding for new visitors and support the overall ambience of a welcoming environment.
Digital signage will be strategically placed throughout, and should be considered for the teen area, the community room, and near the service point in close proximity to people waiting in line. Signs that are facing the exterior need to be brighter, and glare-proof. All controls need to be easily accessible to staff from the interior. Cabling needs to accommodate HDMI and VGA.
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Functional Sign Types Needed These are in addition to all code-required signage.
Exterior:
Building name (Martin Luther King Branch, Milwaukee Public Library) Blade sign, prominently placed Monument sign, prominently placed at main entrance Dedication plaque Parking lot and towing info Camera surveillance Access info (Staff Only, Deliveries, etc.)
Open/close (usually on blade sign and/or monument sign at parking lot) Signs located at book drop chute, assuming direct connection to 3M automated sorter: Return (the largest, supplemented by the following smaller signs) Use Return slot inside library when open One item at a time
Items cannot be backdated (for 3M sorter) Interior:
Room/area name or ID, including but not limited to:
Welcome (at service desk) Checkout (at self-checkouts) Return (see below for additional signs at automated sorter) Print/Scan Holds Internet Search (at catalog) Ask (at perch) Community Info Code of Conduct Donor Recognition Plaques – at donated feature such as fireplace, art, etc.
Donor Recognition Wall Artist Recognition Plaques – at site of installation Time capsule plaque – at site of installation Emergency and restroom info (per code) Access info (staff, etc.)
Digital signage – Community room, Marketplace, Teens
Events info (d) Hours info (d)
Collection description End panel (standard size, usually landscape orientation) Media dividers Shelf top Section headings or shelf labels
Automated sorter signage: Return (the largest, supplemented by) One Item At A Time Items cannot be backdated (for 3M sorter)
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7. Technology
The library should have a strong and flexible technology infrastructure to accommodate future possible uses in the building. This should include robust and high-speed wireless access using the most current standards, sufficient to allow multiple devices per user (laptop, smart phone, etc.) at one time, a high-speed connection to the internet, library databases, and the library’s catalog. As much as possible, technology in the library should be self-service, including checkout, printing, and computer use. Though wireless will be the most prevalent method by which to access the network and the internet, the building should have adequate wired infrastructure (for MPL-owned equipment) to allow for growth. The preference for providing internet access to patrons is now solely via wireless access points.
Spaces for collaborative work need to be included, as well as space for the solitary computer user. There are currently 3 catalogs, 21 desktops, 12 laptops, and 40 Chromebooks available for public use at the King Branch. There will be a reduced number of desktops in the new library in lieu of more flexibility, more seating and more electrical outlets to support increasing numbers of patrons entering with their own personal laptops and other hand-held devices. Electrical outlets should be placed in convenient locations to patron seating areas, either on the wall above the desktops, or embedded in the furniture. Where MPL is placing public computers, electrical outlets should be placed below the desktop. MPL prefers patron-accessible outlets that incorporate USB ports along with power.
Public computers will have the ability to access the internet, the full range of library-provided databases, and the Microsoft Office productivity suite.
Digital signs will be installed in several locations in the building. Meeting rooms and other appropriate areas will use video monitors for screening content via content management software. When connected to a device, usually a laptop, the monitors should also be able to screen content via the device’s ability to stream the internet, play DVDs or CDs, run different presentation software and act as a computer monitor.
Baseline configuration: Note that the listed systems may be outdated and are listed for informational purposes. The Library continues to update systems and requires state-of-the-art components appropriate to a newly constructed library.
- Crestron AM-200 AirMedia presentation system
- TV
- Wall plate with HDMI and DisplayPort inputs
- Electrical outlets for TV, AirMedia, potentially-connected computing device
- Chromebox w/Enterprise Upgrade license for digital signage display when
AirMedia’s not in use
Videoconferencing-capable configuration:
- Crestron Mercury tabletop conference system
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- High-resolution wall-mounted camera
- TV
- Wall plate with HDMI and DisplayPort inputs
- Electrical outlets for TV, Mercury, potentially-connected computing device
- Mercury cabling integrated with furniture
- Chromebox w/Enterprise Upgrade license for digital signage display when
Mercury’s not in use
The staff should have access to a secure staff wireless network and should be able to use technology tools that allow them to be mobile and effective. This could include devices such as tablets, smart phones, or other communication devices.
The collection will use currently-installed RFID technology, and the circulation room may need to accommodate a 5-bin Automatic Materials Handling (AMH) unit.
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8. Communications systems
The infrastructure should be able to support advanced communication requirements for a variety of telecommunication services or technologies.
Note that the listed systems may be outdated and are listed for informational purposes. The Library continues to update systems and requires state-of-the-art components appropriate to a newly constructed library.
The IT room must be climate controlled, well-lit, and have enough space to accommodate all the various systems, including security and building controls; the computer network with cables, switches, and routers; any telephone equipment; PA system equipment; and any other electrical equipment to be added. MPL will provide one of each of the following types of data racks: 4-post rack; 2-post rack. There should be enough space to accommodate a second 4-post rack at MLK to support future configuration as secondary network operations facility. The IT room should be secured by a staff badge reader and protected by an automated fire suppression system.
The telephone system is City-provided and will support the staff in effectively carrying out the proactive service model which requires high levels of mobility, especially among the reference staff. There is only one service point that will be regularly staffed by someone who could take incoming calls on a land-line. The alarm system must tie into the phone system. The public address system must tie into the phone system, and be audible throughout all public and staff areas.
The Community Rooms must incorporate a technology to address hearing booster/assist for occupancy over 50 people.
Metasys/ C-Cure 9000 (Johnson Controls Products), the Library’s building management control system must tie into the network.
Public
a) In-house courtesy phones and public pay phones will not be provided.
b) FAX is provided. Co-locate with copier and scanner, all of which need power and data.
Staff
a) Public address speakers with access from any handset.
b) Phones – handsets to be installed at public service desk, workrooms, break room, and manager’s office. City-provided system will have a combination of handsets and wireless devices.
c) Conference phone in the Community Room for staff use only
d) FAX
9. Furnishings and Finishes
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It is important that flexibility, especially in staff areas, be maximized. Functionality and durability must be achieved without compromising good aesthetics. A diverse array of users should be considered, and selected systems must be able to accommodate varying physical capabilities among users, including staff. Environmentally safe products and materials should be used. All furnishings and flooring must be durable and easily cleaned and maintained. Carpeting or another type of soft-flooring is preferred in areas with negative adjacency to the entrance, restrooms, and materials handling area.
The pros and cons of using standardized products vs. customized products should be carefully weighed in each circumstance before committing to either solution.
Public areas
Furnishing systems may vary depending on the function served (children’s, teens, adult, etc.) Style and finish may support an effort to create an identifiable character for each area, as well as provide an underlying thread which unifies all furnishings throughout the public areas. However, the Library is open to other possible solutions.
The most important criteria for the Library is that any system used provide the level of quality and durability required to maximize the useful life of each piece while minimizing the amount of needed repair and maintenance. For example, high-use surfaces, such as the counter top at the service point, must be a highly durable, solid surface such as quartzite or similar product. Fabric for chairs should be durable vinyls or similar products.
Way-finding devices and signage incorporated throughout the public areas will integrate well with the selected systems.
The placement, look and feel of the selected systems will support the overall ambience of a welcoming and comfortable environment and to the extent possible, will acknowledge the feedback gathered during community meetings.
Staff areas
The furnishing systems for staff areas will provide ergonomically safe components and help to support the ambience and productivity of a pleasant and highly organized work environment. MPL uses Teknion desking systems as the standard for work stations.
Standard task chairs are selected from the State Contract list.
10. Shelving systems
Flexibility in shelving is essential, thus standardized components are preferred. The format of popular materials changes over time and the shelving needs to accommodate these changing formats. Therefore, custom made shelving and format specific shelving should be avoided. There will be a few exceptions to this guideline such as puppets, kits, Page | 19 board books, and possibly paperback books, and adjustable-depth shelving is desired for media. A significant amount of shelving that supports face-out display, including range-end and wall mounted display shelving, and some mobile displays for merchandising the collection is desired. The Library’s standard is MJ Industries System 30 shelving.
11. Security
Every reasonable precaution should be taken to ensure the safety of library customers, staff, materials and equipment from theft, vandalism, and other potential acts of violence. Maximize sightlines throughout building and to the exterior to the extent possible.
Occupants need to have access to nearby emergency exits at opposite ends of the building.
MPL’s keycard access system should be installed on exterior doors. Interior, staff-only areas will be accessible via keycard access system if installed. If not, these doors will be outfitted with cipher locks.
Security alarm pads will be easily accessible to staff for enabling/disabling at staff-only and delivery entrances. This will also be the case for some lighting controls.
Security cameras, motion sensors, and door contacts must be incorporated into the library design. The camera system will use IP cameras that need to connect to the security camera server on the internal network. Cameras should be prominently placed and visible to occupants. Areas within camera view should be well-lit. Camera placement should maximize the ability to capture a full facial shot for frontal views.
Even though staff will be highly mobile throughout the facility, it’s important that unobstructed sight lines between staff areas and potential hotspots, such as the media section be incorporated. Some tall shelving will be needed, so it is necessary
12. Amenities
The feasibility of including retail or display space near the service point for MPL promotional items such as book bags, mugs, posters, etc. in new and renovated MPL facilities will be studied and included in cost estimates and design proposals. A final determination as to whether or not it will be incorporated into the final design will be based on the MPL’s ability to fund construction. Storage space for stock and related supplies can be located back of house, but should be factored into calculations for overall storage needs.
13. Lighting
Ambient lighting will consist of a pleasant mix between natural daylight and installed fixtures. Good design principles will be applied to accomplish an artistic yet functional
Page | 20 transition between general and task lighting levels, and ensuring that there is ample light throughout.
The artistic use of fenestration and screening techniques will maximize the use of natural daylight while blocking the ill effects of direct sunlight and unsightly views.
Simultaneously, attempt to exploit the amount of diffused light and the most desirable views without creating blank, cold, wall expanses to the exterior.
All lighting should be energy efficient, low maintenance and easy to use by staff. Use occupancy sensors and lighting controls which incorporate daylighting principles.
Uniform lighting fixtures should be used that provide ease in changing drivers and LED board strips. All light fixtures are to be LED.
14. Acoustics
Ideally the library will have flooring and ceiling material in the public areas to absorb sound and provide a warm and welcoming environment. It is critical that noise from the lobby, HVAC system, plumbing, neighbors and the street be tempered. HVAC systems should be designed to address acoustics as well. Incorporate a sound barrier between the Community Room and the library proper.
15. Physical Plant
Sufficient space to place and maintain HVAC and electrical systems should be provided without sacrificing Library programmable space. Any HVAC equipment located outside should be protected from access by the public.
At least one set of exterior doors needs to be wide enough for a pallet to bring in large equipment or supplies.
Metasys/ C-Cure 9000 (Johnson Controls Products), the Library’s building management control system needs to tie into the internet.
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VI. Functional Spaces
The following pages (electronically, see separate document) are the spreadsheet summaries listing functional descriptions, specific details and requirements needed for each space or function listed below:
1. Entrance lobby
2. Community room
3. Study rooms
4. Public restrooms
5. Service point
6. Security station
7. The Perch/reference desk
8. Self-checkout
9. Materials handling area
10. Loading/receiving
11. Collection footprint
12. Children’s area
13. Teen area (includes Makerspace)
14. Adult area
15. Computer tables for adult, teen and children’s areas
16. Staff workroom/office areas
a. Reference staff workroom
b. Branch Manager’s office
17. Staff breakroom
18. Staff restroom
19. Electrical
20. Custodial area
21. Mechanical room
22. Donor wall and other recognition
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VII. Collection Description
The Martin Luther King Branch is the newest branch in the MPL system and can serve as a guide in designing spaces to house the collections at the Midtown Project. Staff will be consulted to provide up-to-date information on required linear feet of shelving, display needs and locations for library catalogue computers.
Separation of the adult, teen and children’s book collections will be continued in the Midtown Project and teen media will continue to be integrated with the adult media collections. African-American Fiction and Non-Fiction sections in both the Children’s and Adult Areas will remain as dedicated collections. The Dewey Decimal Classification System will continue to be used to organize and arrange non-fiction materials within the facility.
Flexibility in shelving is essential and therefore custom made shelving and format specific shelving will be avoided. Mobile shelving on wheels may be considered for flexibility. There will be a few exceptions to this guideline such as shelving for puppets, children’s kits and possibly paperback books for adults, teens and children. Some face out and display shelving is required as these units market materials by having covers face the customer.
The trend toward providing digital content in public libraries is expected to intensify. As digital content becomes more available, it follows that physical collections will be significantly reduced in size and therefore the need for linear footage of shelving will also be reduced over time. In 10-20 years, some collections will be replaced with digital content, such as audio books, movies, music, many magazines, reference books and some adult print material.
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VIII. Appendix
1. Appendix 1 – MPL Service areas map
2. Appendix 2 – Functional Space Summaries
3. Appendix 3 – FFS Electrical Systems
4. Appendix 4 – FFS Mechanical System
5. Appendix 5 – Door Hardware & Controls
6. Appendix 6 – Construction Matrix
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