Community Meetings and Participation

A third community meeting took place early November to review the Schematic Design for the renovation and expansion of the Hennepin County - Roosevelt Library located in south Minneapolis.   Two community meetings took place early this summer during the concept design phase.  Attendance for all three community meetings were open and included neighborhood organizations, current library users, neighboring residents, and local elected officials.  The first meeting focused on participant’s use, thoughts and experience at Roosevelt Library.  Participant input was then compiled to create key design ideas.  The following Key Design Ideas/Concepts were developed based on community input.

 

1.             Open sight lines, open library layout
2.             Cozy, intimate and warm place
3.             Flexible multi-purpose gathering space
4.             Natural light – quality of light from multiple sources
5.             Exterior reading spaces
6.             Family-friendly place

 

 

 The second community meeting presented concept images that demonstrated design ideas.  The third meeting went into more detail on the proposed design and how the design continues to reinforce these design concepts.   The goal of the recent meeting was to get community input on the overall layout as well as the 2 exterior options.

 

The schematic Design package for the project is currently being reviewed by the county commissioners, hopes to start design development and CDs through the winter with cConstruction start in Spring 2012.

 

General Building Background

The existing Library building was constructed in 1927 and is a 4,320 SF (footprint) single-story building, with a small basement utility space. The building was designed by Minneapolis architect, Jerome Paul Jackson as a community library that would serve the adjacent Roosevelt High School and Roosevelt neighborhood.  The building was placed on the National Historic Register in May, 2000 and has been designated a Building of Cultural Significance by the city of Minneapolis through its Historic Preservation Commission.  The library is one of the 14 branch buildings built pre-1960 by the Minneapolis Public Library System led by Gratia Countryman.

The main level is comprised of one large intimate reading room that contains no dividers or partition walls.  The main floor is open and naturally lit by numerous large windows.  The exterior walls are lined with open shelving aimed at easy access.  One goal of the project is to strengthen these successful attributes while revitalizing the overall experience.

Maintenance and improvements are critical to keep this library as a community anchor and resource well into the future.  Roosevelt’s key upgrades include full code compliance, accessibility upgrades, new restrooms, new energy efficient mechanical and electrical systems, exterior restoration, collection updates, technology upgrades,  increased seating/lounge areas and an efficient staff area.  There is a need to provide space for group gatherings, teens seeking homework assistance, children attending story time and more flexible leisure reading space.

 

The goals of the renovation and expansion project are as follows:

  • Renovate the building’s envelope (façade and roof assemblies).
  • Provide new building mechanical, electrical and technology infrastructure.
  • Make the facility accessible.
  • Provide a multi-purpose community gathering space for additional programs.
    • Create exterior public spaces for reading and activities.
    • Improve staff work areas.

In addition to the work listed above, the project must incorporate the following efforts:

  • Abatement and removal of existing hazardous materials.
  • Renovation and expansion must adhere to Historic Preservation Center standards.
  • Provide a complete fire protection system – an additional waterline required.
  • Full replacement of existing sewer line.