SCCPSS

ATTACHMENT 'A'

Savannah Chatham County Public

Schools

New Library Learning Commons

Design Guide

2022-2023

July 2022

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Savannah-Chatham County Public School System

LIBRARY LEARNING COMMONS DESIGN GUIDE

(FORMERLY KNOWN AS LIBRARY MEDIA CENTERS)

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Library Learning Commons Design Guide

This document describes Savannah Chatham County Public Schools design guides for Library

Learning Commons (LLC) standards and guidelines necessary to create a welcoming learning environment that is flexible and meets the needs of the student, faculty, and community. LLC exist to develop and support lifelong learners. They are the center of school life, driving a passion for reading and learning to all.

All renovations and new buildings shall follow this plan for updating and designing LLC. All

LLC standards and procedures shall be documented, adopted, and enforced by the Academic

Affairs Division and the Library Media Technology Specialists.

The Library Leaming Commons is the information hub of the school, supported and promoted by our Library Media Technology Specialists. It includes and accommodates activities and interactions between students, teachers, administrators, parents, and community members. The

LLC focuses on information literacy, media literacy, and technology literacy to enhance student teaching and learning. The center provides access to a wealth of various resources in order to support diversity in learning style.

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Revision History

DATE PERSON VERSION DESCRIPTION

1/27/2013 David Feliciano 2013.1 Original Release

2/1/2013 David Feliciano 2013.2 Final Release

12/5/2013 David Feliciano 2014.1 Reviewed and updated

1/26/2016 Wendy Marshall 2016.1 Reviewed and Updated

1/26/2016 David Feliciano 2016.1 Reviewed and Updated

6/12/2018 Tammy Kemp

(Reviewed/Approved by

Aretha Rhone-Bush)

2018.1 Reviewed and Updated

7/18/2022 Tonja Brunn 2018.1 Reviewed and Updated

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1. Table of Contents

2. Procurement/ Installation Responsibilities

3. General Design of the Learning Commons (LLC}

4. HVAC S stem

5. Walls

6. Floors

7. Lights and Windows

8. Electrical and Data Networking

9. Shelf Desi n

10. Furniture & Com uters

11. Required Functional Areas

11.1. Entrance Area

11.2. Display Area

11.3. Media Administrative Office

11.4. Technical Processing Area

11.5. Lookup Stations

11.6. Small Group and Independent Work Area

11.7. Equipment Storage Room

11.8. Circulation / Help Desk Area

11.9. Multimedia Production / Video Studio Room

11.10. Instructional Area

11.11. Storytelling Area

11.12. Soft Seating/Reading Area

11.13. Professional Resources Room

11.14. Cyber Cafe Area

11.15. Learning Lab

11.16. Restrooms

11.17. Com uter Lab

11.18. Main Print Collection Area

2. Procurement/ Installation Responsibilities

Item Funding Source Furnish Install

LLC Design Construction Architect Contractor

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LLC furnishings Construction Owner Board Sub-

Contractor

LLC technology, learning devices, and digital resources

Construction Owner Board Sub-

Contractor

LLC books and materials Startup Funds Owner Board Sub-

Contractor

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3. General Design of the Library Learning Commons (LLC)

The physical design of the LLC plays a major factor in the efficient and effective use of resources by students. The LLC is the central point of access to information and resources for students and staff. A collection of technology learning devices, print, and electronic resources are maintained in this center. The center's learning space is required to accommodate collaborative work spaces for students. Creating flexible learning spaces

(walls, lighting, and mobile furniture) is essential in order to accommodate emerging technologies, curricular changes, and evolving instructional materials.

The LLC should be centrally located within the building. This placement will provide easy access from all classrooms and learning areas. This will support the movement of materials and technology equipment to and from the Library Learning

Commons and the ease of access by all students and staff. The LLC should include a minimum of 6200 square feet.

The LLC needs to be one story for security and management. The design needs to be round or square in order to maximize line of sight and eliminate unsafe areas.

Columns in the space should be minimized to avoid obstructing line of sight. All listed and required rooms are to be located around the perimeter of the center and have windows (exception on windows is the equipment storage room). Security mirrors will be required where blind spots exist to ensure the safety of students and staff. The LLC should be keyed separately from the rest of the school, when possible, and rooms housing expensive equipment need to lock and not be accessible with a master key.

The LLC needs to be located on the first floor, whenever possible, particularly if

Pre-K - 2nd grade children are being served. The design needs to provide flexible space to support creative use throughout and beyond the traditional school day. The LLC needs to be designed to support expanded hours. Easy access is needed from the outside to accommodate early morning and evening learning events, community activities, and for the delivery of building materials and technology resources. The signage for the outside of the area should reflect the updated name, "Library Learning Commons".

The LLC needs to be well lit and conducive to learning. Natural lighting is acceptable only if the lighting is controlled through a window shade system and does not render instructional technology displays (projectors and monitors) unusable. The design should take into account acoustics control to limit the travel of noise throughout the center. Color schemes for the LLC should match or compliment school colors.

The LLC needs to be designed to support multiple activities simultaneously.

Appropriate traffic patterns need to be taken into consideration in order to allow individuals, small groups, and entire classes to enter, exist, and work with minimal

SCCPSS v2018.1 Page 8 disruption to other areas. Space within the center is required for formal instruction of a full class while individuals and small groups can work in adjacent areas.

4. HVAC System

5. Walls

6. Floors

1.1.1.1 The LLC requires an independent HVAC system for year-round operation in order to protect equipment, materials, books, and resources. Relative humidity should be maintained under 50% to protect books, materials, and technology.

1.1.1.2 Wherever possible, walls of rooms are to be all glass or to have glass above 3 ½ feet from the floor. Solid walls will also be required in the LLC for the option of mounting digital/interactive displays and posters. Where shelves are to be fixed to walls, the conshuction must be either concrete block or have metal suppo1is added behind sheetrock walls to attach suspended bookcase systems as needed. There should be no "nooks" created by placement of shelving, structural columns, or walls.

1.1.1.3 A combination of carpet and non-carpet floors are to be used.

Non-carpet floors for high traffic area, learning labs, rnakerspaces and social/cyber center areas.

7. Lights and Windows

1.1.1.4 Lighting and windows can affect the instructional enviromnent within the center. Flexibility and control in lighting is essential.

Separate lighting is necessary for individual areas, so lighting should be individually controlled and may be dimmed or turned off independently. There are three types oflighting that need to be addressed and taken into consideration on the design: Natural lighting, artificial direct and indirect lighting. The optimum lighting design is to provide multiple zones with dimming capability and using a combination of direct and indirect lighting.

1.1.1.4.1 Natural Lighting

This type oflighting is welcomed in the LLC, provided that it can be controlled. Southern windows will provide the brightest light while northern windows will provide consistent lighting throughout the day. Because

SCCPSS v2018.1 Page 9 of the interference natural lighting can have, the ability to limit or block sunlight on demand is essential, especially in areas where video displays are present.

Blinds or louvers must be provided in order to control the outside light and must be easily controlled by the library, media, technology specialist. Windows higher than 6' that provide direct sunlight require sun block or diffusers. A balance of windows with wall space for shelving is necessary.

1.1.1.4.2 Artificial and Indirect Lighting

Direct lighting should be located along the stacks shelving, display cases, and wall arts. Indirect lighting should be located over the computers and projection areas. Diffusers will ensure staff can provide the right lighting over the computers and projection area.

8. Electrical and Data Networking

1.1.1.5 Multiple power stations/outlets with surge protection should be placed along available wall space at 6 foot intervals and throughout the LLC to support school and student-provided technology devices. Floor power, in addition to wall power is necessary, placed at a minimum of 12 ft. intervals, and at counter/table height level as the furniture design requires.

1.1.1.6 A combination of wired and wireless is required throughout the entire center and adjoining rooms, such as the equipment room, learning labs, makerspaces and technical processing spaces.

9. Shelf Design

In order to provide good visibility and space utilization, tall stacks of shelves are to be placed along the perimeter walls and lower stacks of shelves are to be placed throughout the center. All free-standing shelves will have locking casters to support flexibility in the center to accommodate a variety of activities.

Shelves for books are to be no more than 2/3 full or plan to provide 120% of the collection size. Picture book shelving is to be 200% of the picture book collection size. Free standing bookcases are to have 3 adjustable shelves with open view and book stops on each level. Shelves to be (12" or 18") deep and no more than 36" wide.

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Free-standing shelves no more than 72" in length (2x36"). Free-standing shelves are to be double-sided and have finished ends to support displays and signage purposes. All shelves are to be smoothly finished on the outer sides and standardized in design and color.

ES and KS - Double-sided mobile book bins for picture books should be no longer than 72" long and of a height appropriate for K- 2 students.

ES and KS - Bookshelves no more than 42" high but able to accommodate three shelves for picture books (approximately 12-13" high). Wall shelving no more than 60" high

MS - Shelves no more than 42" high. Wall shelving no more than 72" high

HS - Shelves no more than 48" high. Wall shelving no more than 72" high

Shelving Formula:

Volume Type Recommended Depth

(inches)

Volumes per Linear Foot of

Shelf

Fiction

Nonfiction 12 10

Young Adult

10 12

Picture Books 12 20

Juvenile Fiction

10 13

Juvenile Nonfiction 12 13

The target size and type of the book collection for a new Library Learning Commons needs to be obtained from the school's Library Media Technology Specialist and shelving ordered to accommodate the collection at the new site.

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10. Furniture and Computers

1.1.1.7 Furniture

Furniture chosen should be designed to last more than 20 years.

Durability and warranty are important. Tables are to be mobile, of flexible design to promote collaboration, and may be a mixture of desk and bar height. Narrow tables can also be used to support assessments, testing, and direct instruction. Furniture to be a mixture of wood tones and metal. We prefer laminate for table tops.

Furniture needs to be easily movable and come in a variety of styles. Chairs are required for a variety of seating arrangements and are to be sturdy enough to accommodate all users. Upholstered or comfortable leisure seating is required.

1.1.1.7.1 Minimum desk height - 27.5"

1.1.1.7.2 Square Table: 36 sq ft (42" table) or 9 sq ft needed per student.

1.1.1.8 Computers

1.1.1.8.1 Adequate number of portable devices provided for

students to conduct research, collaborate, create, read, etc.

1.1.1.8.2 Stationary look-up devices

1.1.1.8.2.1 Minimum Ratio 1:100 for <500 students

1.1.1.8.2.2 Minimum Ratio 1:200 for >500 students

11. Required Functional Areas

11.1. Entrance Area

A single main entrance space requires double doors to allow one dedicated for inflow of traffic and the other for outflow of traffic. The entrance is to have as much glass as possible. A secondary door entrance with a window and a blind is also required into the center; however, it will be restricted for staff use only. This will prevent students from using the LLC as a hallway.

11.2. Display Area

This space needs to be located on an available wall near the entrance. There are two sections to the display area. One is to have direct light for highlighting books and student work. The other has diffused light to support digital interactive displays. (Power and data are required for digital displays).

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11.3. Media Administrative Office

This office space is for the Library Media Technology Specialist (LMTS) and support staff to work with minimal distractions. This area is used for previewing and processing materials, generating orders, and reports. In the design, this office is to be close to the circulation desk in order to minimize back and forth movement of staff. An office desk, locking file cabinet, an adjustable office chair, and 2 guest chairs should be supplied. A hard-wired phone line and phone is required. There should be enough space for 60" tall shelving. A locking closet with rack for hanging coats, shelf for storing handbag, etc. is preferred.

11.4. Processing/Workroom

This work space holds supplies and materials waiting for processing and also is an area for technical support and for teachers to work. This area is used to unpack new materials and books requiring repair. Work counter space requires power and data 6" above the counters. Cabinets should also be located above the counter space for additional storage. Sink with hot and cold water is required for material cleanup. Splash guard is required if the sink is located next to work counter.

11.5. Lookup Stations

A minimum of 3 lookup stations should be located in the general area of the circulation desk, preferably against a wall. Data and power capabilities need to be provided.

11.6. Small Group and Independent Work Area

This space is for research, writing, and learning. Students will be able to work in groups collaboratively or independently. Furniture needs to be on casters, include electrical outlets for charging, if affordable, and reconfigurable, depending upon the needs of the students.

11.7. Equipment Storage Room

This secured space holds portable learning devices and equipment. It is required to be accessible from the LLC and directly from the hallway. Locking storage cabinets and shelving are needed. Power should be placed along the entire perimeter of the room to support the storage and charging of portable learning devices and other technology devices. Typically these devices are maintained in mobile charging carts. Solid security doors are required. Phone and data connection required. Due to the openness of the LLC, this room will serve as a security room for the staff and students. The walls of the storage room are to have no windows. The door will require keyed deadbolt access from both sides. A phone line and phone also need to be installed in this room, for security purposes.

11.8. Circulation I Help Desk Area

It is important for this space to be located near the entrance of the LLC and where line of sight is available to all areas of the LLC for supervision and student safety.

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It requires one mobile phone, two desktop computers. and 2 laptops for check in/check-out. The area will need adequate space for two people to conduct material check-in, check-out, and monitoring the activities around the LLC. There needs to be access from two sides and not attached to any walls. It should include a mobile book cart for book returns. The furniture should be modular to allow for custom configuration/reconfiguration of the space. The furniture will require storage space and drawers that lock. Two surface height levels are required, a service-height counter and a desk-height counter. The counter is required to be smooth and without raised joints. Sufficient power and data are required for two workstations and one mobile phone. A networked printer needs to be accessible from the circulation area.

11.9. Multimedia Production I Video Studio Room

This space houses a television production studio, control area, and digital editing equipment. It is used for the production of building broadcasts and for the creation of students' multimedia projects. The space requires a high ceiling for grid lights and soundproofing to minimize noise. At least one wall will be Chromakey green or blue (depending upon school colors and preferences) on a smooth surface, not on a cinder block wall. There also needs to be at least 6 data drops in the room.

Extra power for specialized equipment is required (lights, camera, teleprompter, etc.).

11.10. Instructional Area

This space is where students can be accommodated for the delivery of instruction.

The space will need to accommodate at least a 75" mobile, flat panel on a rolling stand. Power and data need to be available in this space, as well. Include several floor outlets spaced, at a minimum of every 12 feet, to accommodate charging of devices and other electrical needs. The area should also be able to accommodate one to two classes comfortably. This area can also serve for staff and community service learning.

11.11. Storytelling Area

This is specifically for elementary and K-8 schools. This space is where students can be accommodated for the delivery of instruction, book talks, or story time using a variety of tools. Additional designated space is required for a reading chair and floor space for a storytelling rug.

11.12. Soft Seating I Reading Area

This space is where students can read books, work on a device or other independent activity. It can also be considered a reading nook and should include soft seating that can be rearranged. The space will need to be designed to support

1% of total students. Electrical outlets need to be located in this area, as well, for students to charge devices, if possible.

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11.13. Instructional/Professional Resources Room (Elementary and K-8 Schools

Only)

This space is for staff to access professional books and materials for instructional research and use. It is also the room to store sets of Guided Readers, if necessary.

Single-sided 60" tall book cases should line three walls of this room. Counter height tables with power accessible at table height and wireless Internet access should be available.

11.14. Cyber Cafe Area

This space is for schools which house students in grades 6 - 12 and is provided for student socialization and collaboration. Non-carpet floor is required to support students having food and drink in the area, if permitted. Outdoor Cyber Cafes can also be provided with controlled access through the LLC, with security cameras, if possible, for monitoring purposes.

11.15. Leaming Lab (High School)/Makerspace (for K-8)

This is to be used for students to work collaboratively and individually in a separate space. At least one wall of the learning lab will be composed of floor to ceiling glass for easy visibility. It should contain multiple outlets for student devices, including some embedded in the tables. Digital displays and whiteboards will be provided for students to collaborate and display their work. Furniture should be lab like furniture to provide easy clean up and durability.

11.16. Restrooms

One male and one female restroom is required. These will also serve to support school functions and community events.

Locate access to the student restrooms from the hallway outside the Learning

Commons Space or adjacent to the Learning Lab to avoid taking wall space from the open area of the LLC.

One adult restroom in the area of the LMTS' office or Professional Resource

Room area.

11.17. Computer Lab

A computer lab needs to be accessible from the LLC. The room will have two access doors, one leading to the outside hallway and the other accessible through the Library Learning Commons. The wall from the Learning Commons will be solid glass windows to provide visibility and light. Shades or screens will need to be provided to reduce glare on the display screens from any natural light from outside windows. This general purpose lab is available for instruction, student research, work assignments, and projects.

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11.18. Main Print Collection Area

Adequate space needs to be provided for the shelves containing the main print collection of the LLC. All bookshelves in this space will be on casters or fixed to the perimeter walls. All schools with a Pre-K - 2 population will have an area to contain the book bins specified previously in item #9 Shelf Designs.

11.19. Professional Resources/Processing/Work Area (Middle and High School Only)

This work space holds supplies and materials waiting for processing and also is an area for technical support. This area is used to unpack new materials and books requiring repair. Work counter space requires power and data 6" above the counters. Cabinets should also be located above the counter space for additional storage. Sink with hot and cold water is required for material cleanup. Splash guard is required if the sink is located next to work counter. This space is also for staff to access professional books and materials for instructional research and use.

Single-sided 60" tall book cases should line one wall of this room. Counter height tables with power accessible at table height and wireless Internet access should be available.