tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3951889066637161662024-03-12T19:54:43.473-06:00Library SketchbookNampa Public Library's Building BlogNPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-19001200039082757942009-06-04T10:28:00.001-06:002009-06-04T10:31:26.472-06:00Don’t lose that idea!Customers, library staff and civic leaders may be disappointed that timeline for our new library building is not more definite, but I am confident it will happen, and residents, employees and leaders will all have a role in making it wonderful! In the meantime I am recording ideas and phrases I don’t want to get lost, and that we will implement as well as we can in the current building:<br /><br /><blockquote>‘The Library should embody a sense of joy, excitement, imagination and discovery that inspires a reverence for all that a library represents. The Nampa Public Library will be a building where individuals and families return over and over again for education, enlightenment and entertainment.’</blockquote><br /><blockquote>‘The library is an information resource to be navigated by the public, as well as a highly technical work environment for the library staff.’ [adapted from a Minneapolis Public Library webpage, 2007]</blockquote><br /><br />Add your ideas to the Don’t-Lose-That-Idea list:NPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-61693158952772870572008-05-22T14:35:00.012-06:002008-05-22T15:16:10.488-06:00Council Approves Land Purchase<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZeFkp-eP-SGMx3ntsKYR-5wqRF262GMpPUybpkKmv_VfaVWo48w7WQ0DQi6c3_o6EIQ81dwhyphenhyphenV9Jckzb5L3fU3XJEiFeo-7xJy9vAvsRCjPYw4-soaejwGxQQ89d7F30j-Xnr7R9DODk/s1600-h/P1010007-crop-sm.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZeFkp-eP-SGMx3ntsKYR-5wqRF262GMpPUybpkKmv_VfaVWo48w7WQ0DQi6c3_o6EIQ81dwhyphenhyphenV9Jckzb5L3fU3XJEiFeo-7xJy9vAvsRCjPYw4-soaejwGxQQ89d7F30j-Xnr7R9DODk/s320/P1010007-crop-sm.JPG" border="0" alt="Future Library Block where Taco Time is now"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203303893559470258" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvjlJ8PP6n1hxVN1LJVd6EZJI1Oh20wNZS15jaw8gLM75k4_KYTljKl3OxqnQFvlz4f8glzDf2JuESgwRPKhZ4AV45abqS4q0gUmA5HX-jMxbsid8elYrQPFfSED6bf_kAiM0Rc9JPRe8/s1600-h/google-satellite.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvjlJ8PP6n1hxVN1LJVd6EZJI1Oh20wNZS15jaw8gLM75k4_KYTljKl3OxqnQFvlz4f8glzDf2JuESgwRPKhZ4AV45abqS4q0gUmA5HX-jMxbsid8elYrQPFfSED6bf_kAiM0Rc9JPRe8/s320/google-satellite.png" border="0" alt="Google Maps image" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5203311886493608162" /></a>After a public hearing Monday, the Nampa City Council approved the purchase of land for a new library, slated for the block between 11th and 10th Avenues and 3rd and 4th Streets. The decision is an important milestone and was made after several key conditions were met. The City Finance Manager Galen Kidd reported to the Council that the city has enough in reserve funds to make this kind of one-time capital expense. The City Attorney Terry White also advised it is within the power of the City Council to approve the purchase to expedite the downtown redevelopment process and to serve the public. About a dozen members of the public spoke at the public hearing and nearly all seats were taken. The Clerk entered into the public record 10 letters from citizens who did not attend. All those were in favor of purchasing land for the new library. A tremendous amount of cooperation was needed to get this far, but clearly the community values library services and the overall goal to build a new facility.<br />- DanNPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-24568661679096844422008-05-15T14:38:00.008-06:002008-05-15T15:23:06.507-06:00City Council to Decide on Land for New LibraryNow is the time to let your voice be heard. Do you wish for more space for seating to read a book? Do you want stimulating and comfortable areas that will effectively meet the needs of children, teens and adults to enhance their experiences in the library? Do you want more than 10 public computers to do research and look for a job? Let the City Council know that a new library is important to you and needed for our community. We have been looking forward to acquiring the land so that we can move to the next phase in building a library that Nampa and its citizens deserve. On <strong>Monday, May 19th 7:30pm</strong> the City Council will decide whether or not we should move forward on the land acquisition that has been in the works for the past year. Please be a part of this exciting time as we get a step closer to our new Library. In our strategic plan the Board and staff set specific goals to be met by the new Library. Help us to achieve the goals of providing space for groups and individuals featuring an inviting, engaging and welcoming design that will serve to create a sense of place in a unique landmark that brings people together to enjoy reading, learning and growing. Nampa City Council meetings held at Nampa City Hall. (<a href="http://www.nampalibrary.org/5.13.08-city-council-land.pdf">View press release</a>) <br /> - Deborah Babbitt –NPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-86477844138997937732008-03-07T10:55:00.009-07:002008-04-04T10:01:09.904-06:00Design takes another step<div style="text-align: left;">The library board, the Nampa Development Commission and Library staff all made headway on matters of library design this month. Modus Architects of Boise was asked to develop a site plan and elevation drawings. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaoNJjpexerXnifRiIlWIuR7t8lebIqGoEVcIAGEESe-fEd4HtIAutgVemq1YK-NLd1e0Ryb1QT1eBN2B3SF3lNVMUNwpLyIRDGM9F3zgXMaN3tjMcJjy3MfrnUVS3Uygk6aerFN-TSTw/s1600-h/small+elevation+for+web.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179502903979974706" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; float: right;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaoNJjpexerXnifRiIlWIuR7t8lebIqGoEVcIAGEESe-fEd4HtIAutgVemq1YK-NLd1e0Ryb1QT1eBN2B3SF3lNVMUNwpLyIRDGM9F3zgXMaN3tjMcJjy3MfrnUVS3Uygk6aerFN-TSTw/s320/small+elevation+for+web.jpg" border="0" /></a>These reflect the public comment and technical needs of a new building. The drawings were presented at an NDC meeting on March 5, along with snippets of the various reports and studies that serve as a basis for the building plan. The library site has not yet been announced and we are still in the process of accumulating the property. After that, the next steps include inviting the development community to submit qualifications and proposals. We hope this to happen later this spring. The drawings are imaginative and fun and yet still very practical. These are preliminary, but show where the library board is headed.<br /></div><div><div>Dan Black</div></div>NPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-80041483343469323362008-03-06T11:29:00.002-07:002008-03-07T11:03:53.514-07:00More Key Elements....<p class="MsoNormal">The Library Board voted last year to accept some key components in the new building. Those include:</p><ul><li>Ground level entry to the building and a significant library presence so that those passing by on foot or in an auto can easily see the building and view persons using this community resource. The library should have no more than two levels used by the public in order to limit staffing costs, insure high quality service, and minimize security issues. A possible third level could be used for library administrative functions. There should be only one public entrance to the library. Entry lobby should provide separate access to the library service area, restrooms and the major meeting room so that community groups can use the meeting room(s) even if the library is closed. The entry should include public art and space for a coffee kiosk and seating.</li></ul><ul><li>Technology requirements should be a major design consideration. The building will incorporate Wi-Fi access throughout. Public and staff computers will be located throughout the building. Public computer access should be near the vertical communications core and distribution hubs and near the staff elevator. Electrical outlets should be plentiful for both staff and public users of fixed and portable devices.</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><?xml:namespace prefix = o /><o:p></o:p>Dan Black</p>NPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-89255900867879050472008-02-29T08:26:00.002-07:002008-02-29T08:30:02.482-07:00Key Elements for New BuildingWhat are the key elements in the new building?<br /><br />The public, staff and library board have looked long and hard at the most important elements for the new library. Among other key points, the library board voted to require the following elements:<br /><br /><ul><li> Book collection and stacks to house 217,500 volumes</li><li> Periodical collection and stacks to house 320 titles and backfiles</li><li> Nonprint collection and shelving to house 43,500 items</li><li> 63 public computer workstations and furniture</li><li> 78 staff computer workstations and furniture</li><li> 298 reader seats</li><li> 60 staff group seats</li><li> Meeting room and furnishings to seat an audience of up to 400</li><li> Storytime room and furnishings to seat an audience of up to 40</li><li> Conference room and furnishings to seat up to 10 </li></ul><br />~Dan BlackNPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-78322785838360011972008-02-14T19:00:00.001-07:002008-02-14T19:01:56.935-07:00What will the library look like?Directions to the architect reflect public comments received during seven forums and an open house in the spring of 2007. These views, along with ideas submitted online and in suggestion boxes went into a building plan that was completed in the summer of 2007. Finally, a design workshop was conducted with the help of Modus Architects in the summer of 2007. All these ideas have been considered when we asked Modus to prepare fresh drawings. These conceptual elevations will be included in a Request for Proposals from a list of potential developers.<br />Dan BlackNPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-56850912731481848692008-02-06T09:43:00.000-07:002008-02-06T09:46:24.564-07:00Planning this winter<span style="font-family:arial;">While plans for the new library hinge on wrapping up land negotiations, we are still refining what the new library should look like. In December, the Nampa Development Commission hired Modus Architecture of Boise to make a site plan with conceptual elevation drawings. These drawings will show the traffic pattern and help us refine the look and feel for the block, which will include retail and office space, as well as public meeting space. The City of Nampa has engaged Carter and Burgess of Dallas, Texas, to conduct a thorough downtown traffic study. For that firm to do its work, we need a site plan for the library, showing how traffic will enter and leave the place. The library is planned for one city block downtown, with an onsite parking garage attached.<br />- Dan Black</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Community Relations Coordinator</span>NPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-79747419617199092372008-01-17T13:14:00.001-07:002008-01-17T13:29:12.940-07:00Library Buildings 2007: Going, Going Green<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbccOXjo25uhM65YMprvs74s2QWzF2SVIbFe53ikHc2NSopsRUKiUH5oTGt-y2Hhb3k671fgnUx1O803avd0fJ3WLCyx7XF_HN7zE1ZByX1QkGWi6pyRwVJlBshZfQt4kZktBLhTwQqg/s1600-h/clifton-park.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 246px; height: 164px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbccOXjo25uhM65YMprvs74s2QWzF2SVIbFe53ikHc2NSopsRUKiUH5oTGt-y2Hhb3k671fgnUx1O803avd0fJ3WLCyx7XF_HN7zE1ZByX1QkGWi6pyRwVJlBshZfQt4kZktBLhTwQqg/s320/clifton-park.jpg" alt="Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library" title="Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library Info Desk" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156542350947466898" border="0" /></a><b style=""><o:p></o:p></b><o:p></o:p>This is the title of the annual summary of data on new library buildings in the <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">USA</st1:place></st1:country-region>.<span style=""> </span><a href="http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6510894.html?q=library+buildings+2007"><i style="">Library Journal</i></a> reports that the buildings <b style="">“are truly allowing us to catch sight of the future.”<span style=""> </span></b>Trends noted in the 168 public library building projects include amazing teen spaces and ‘green’ spaces. They feature daylighting (controlled admission on natural light through windows to reduce electric lighting), air quality upgrades, renewable resources, water reuse principles, low-voltage lighting, energy efficiency and native plants.<br /><br />Karen Ganske, Director<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">To see <a href="http://www.cphlibrary.org/expansion/progress/20061211-gallery/index.shtml">more photos</a> of this green library visit the <a href="http://www.cphlibrary.org/index.shtml">Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library website. </a></span>NPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-29264952495776980652007-11-16T09:23:00.000-07:002007-11-16T09:29:16.890-07:00Rooftop Garden Planned<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_h9uusZ55_UUvAyY1xbud_SCUJs7YlLDt9FKToLele5gtFQ6Xfg0OD_WYRiVDcrTABADbHql7HUQXOeQImVN0fDEnocFiHIV09ghY4BpQZ7QXeyAqIiPW_gYsIFaA12OV0phmB_QEne6M/s1600-h/roof-garden-2-SLC-07.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_h9uusZ55_UUvAyY1xbud_SCUJs7YlLDt9FKToLele5gtFQ6Xfg0OD_WYRiVDcrTABADbHql7HUQXOeQImVN0fDEnocFiHIV09ghY4BpQZ7QXeyAqIiPW_gYsIFaA12OV0phmB_QEne6M/s320/roof-garden-2-SLC-07.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133475321857350834" /></a><br />The people of Nampa love to garden. We enjoy the space for growing things and changing our perspective. One of the fabulous ideas for green building that we are considering for our new library is a rooftop garden. Many libraries have these and they provide an opportunity for quiet reading and exploration, fresh air and views. Nampans who attended the 2007 forums and design workshop liked the idea, as a part of their desired library experience and as smart planning. <br /><br />Practical considerations determine the type of plantings - raised beds, low maintenance, and requiring minimal water (xeriscape). Plants could be selected from native plants and labeled to provide educational opportunities. A planted roof and patio provide seasonal color, a setting for public art, and a possible place for book signings, book club meetings or children’s events. <br /><br />These pictures were taken at the rooftop garden of the Salt Lake City Public Library this past summer.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDVTmLVQSxOCmjcIbzSCiuE5P-YcIZYt-Eq4EdMXrCXgNgJzg3FctCgl94jwgZYgHrlGkEJBs5FIM9NUA4GyeuUwwERxPK4NYmy-rDuDYcywlw_Zn-lZPk0SG_Bik86ylKngTUAx7LMoau/s1600-h/roofgarden-SLC-07.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDVTmLVQSxOCmjcIbzSCiuE5P-YcIZYt-Eq4EdMXrCXgNgJzg3FctCgl94jwgZYgHrlGkEJBs5FIM9NUA4GyeuUwwERxPK4NYmy-rDuDYcywlw_Zn-lZPk0SG_Bik86ylKngTUAx7LMoau/s320/roofgarden-SLC-07.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133474986849901714" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4PyADozbjQWdewkrNPHJi1tdUba9uZkkb0y5VaDuZVxpY7ghk4DJjxB00TppiBwjVpdWfrS2dYQnwO5TptwgkoiMN3ODBUVV9vf-CAJ6ZRveCY00YcMKZOLMx4_FzwNeXbzUTCEUbZHah/s1600-h/roof-cafe-SLC-07.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4PyADozbjQWdewkrNPHJi1tdUba9uZkkb0y5VaDuZVxpY7ghk4DJjxB00TppiBwjVpdWfrS2dYQnwO5TptwgkoiMN3ODBUVV9vf-CAJ6ZRveCY00YcMKZOLMx4_FzwNeXbzUTCEUbZHah/s320/roof-cafe-SLC-07.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5133475124288855202" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-13938432231049240312007-11-08T15:17:00.000-07:002007-11-08T15:52:15.227-07:00Public Art – Breaking News!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1YoVE3yKbZT6S9Lu6-Q4x4_79gG94h9NuQIYR09cUTdECmy6pZo0YL5AC9no2tdwesPqs7dHUYLKyas3c0ea8O7AQNfaktANEKmm-qVvIRmPxNJ2yALqoumJgRIVv9hBoJETfZkCC0PYN/s1600-h/girl-reading"><img style="float:top; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1YoVE3yKbZT6S9Lu6-Q4x4_79gG94h9NuQIYR09cUTdECmy6pZo0YL5AC9no2tdwesPqs7dHUYLKyas3c0ea8O7AQNfaktANEKmm-qVvIRmPxNJ2yALqoumJgRIVv9hBoJETfZkCC0PYN/s320/girl-reading" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5130605029382352850" /></a><br />The Nampa City Council voted Monday, November 5, 2007 to establish a volunteer arts commission. Seven members will be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Council. Part of the charge to the commission is to establish guidelines. Rhea Allen is quoted in the Idaho Press Tribune as saying the focus will be public art, which Nampa needs. The new library building will have numerous opportunities for public art, and the new commission will be a wonderful partner in commissioning or selecting artwork. It will be an asset when we prepare grant applications and fundraising opportunities. Public art consists of more than statues and murals; it can include beautiful donor recognition walls, functional yet creative bike racks, window designs, or children’s furnishings. Our spring 2007 contest resulted in several ideas for reading tree houses, alphabet chairs, and castle spaces from our own Nampa youth. <br />~Karen Ganske<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTKPBGIHPRGH4UEF5TVHrNWlidQ3sXhziAMKb0DGmf-7ip68LxMKcicWH45TzTw_x-lx6ppJMXodk3pI7XgJoRRBgrVMoi24xBPWDfGBV9fbo-fxhAV6ATMgP-zqJ6MF0gyuYeqd3asorj/s1600-h/puzzle"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTKPBGIHPRGH4UEF5TVHrNWlidQ3sXhziAMKb0DGmf-7ip68LxMKcicWH45TzTw_x-lx6ppJMXodk3pI7XgJoRRBgrVMoi24xBPWDfGBV9fbo-fxhAV6ATMgP-zqJ6MF0gyuYeqd3asorj/s320/puzzle" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5130605029382352834" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-15042180593511208262007-10-01T08:34:00.000-06:002007-10-01T08:35:36.651-06:00Where will the new library be located?The City is negotiating with landowners in the historic downtown area to buy land for our new facility. Those negotiations are going well, and we expect things to be complete within the next four months. The locations won’t be disclosed until agreements with all the landowners are complete. Publicity about the locations could complicate those negotiations and would compromise the privacy of those landowners. The City hopes to finalize negotiations and announce the location in early 2008.<br />When will work begin? After the land is purchased, the project will be put out to bid and must be designed by an architect. The City hopes to break ground in December, 2008, with the building finished in 2010. - Dan BlackNPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-46844855152100800012007-09-18T11:52:00.000-06:002007-09-18T12:01:02.466-06:00Funding<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Several patrons have asked how the city will pay for a new library. In late 2006, the City Council adopted an Urban Renewal District, which provides funding for redevelopment efforts. The plan calls for investing about $36 million in a new library, the cornerstone of a downtown redevelopment effort. Other aspects include a new police headquarters, green space, parking garages and streetscapes. About $80 million of public investment will generate an estimated $325 million in private investment downtown over the next decade. The plan also provides industrial infrastructure such as sewer and water service to attract employers and jobs on Nampa’s northwest side. The funding mechanism, Urban Renewal, is a tool that focuses tax revenue from new development toward the project. It does not raise taxes. It simply dedicates new tax revenue toward projects that aid the local economy.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;">- Dan Black</span>NPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-54983514251483360992007-08-10T10:20:00.000-06:002007-08-12T00:26:04.520-06:00Parking--Good newsAs Summer Reading concludes many customers are breathing a sigh of relief since parking will be more readily available. Some numbers to consider: on Saturday June 2, 2007 (Summer Reading Kickoff) there were 2252 customers who exited our building; during July there were 15 days of the 25 we were open that had more than 1200 customers. Where did you park? Were you able to get one of our 16 existing parking spaces? Did you park on the street? Did you ride your bicycle or skateboard? Did you walk? Did you park in the auxiliary parking across the street? We’re so glad you battled parking to visit us and spend some time here!<br /><br />Even though the parking situation seems grim, there is good news. The new building proposal includes a parking garage that will be adjacent to the building and will have lots of parking spaces! It is our goal to have these spaces free of charge for our customers.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-33267367410319842162007-08-03T14:42:00.000-06:002007-08-10T10:19:38.648-06:00Spaces for Teens<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioeDGOxIoj3XGT3vnwsp4gk6HlrdhjGQoHKOGiF_ujI6wIeDvLgKCJ8jA6RLOwqAqu1klJGTPg7eWZGXx-daxFOpdPoG-xKgBpk5NspxnYaMCH7gOzdLDnX0MG3Y6hor1QM-prxti6TfSK/s1600-h/5473.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094580481914533522" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioeDGOxIoj3XGT3vnwsp4gk6HlrdhjGQoHKOGiF_ujI6wIeDvLgKCJ8jA6RLOwqAqu1klJGTPg7eWZGXx-daxFOpdPoG-xKgBpk5NspxnYaMCH7gOzdLDnX0MG3Y6hor1QM-prxti6TfSK/s320/5473.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Teens are excited and so are we! Nampa Public Library’s teen group, <a href="http://www.nampalibrary.org/TALK.html">T.A.L.K., </a>is off to a great start and they have already contributed many ideas for new programming and the new building. In some of the community forums teen spaces were discussed and include cool things like display areas, comfy seating and places to visit.<br /><br />Here are some pictures I took at the Salt Lake Public Library that made me think of the spaces we’ll have for our teens.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQnc23jfm-EkWIUBDPcTdE9ceFkWSDF0TLZA7O-SxM9WrvpR4Y5xnYylj-86V1EtNH906-Tfkm6mJrzRWADXGgRlehdRhLkNC3kO4ZQ6mGMLKCQPufesS1y43E28P4aPKQ8B0M2r_4fiy/s1600-h/5477.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094580374540351106" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQnc23jfm-EkWIUBDPcTdE9ceFkWSDF0TLZA7O-SxM9WrvpR4Y5xnYylj-86V1EtNH906-Tfkm6mJrzRWADXGgRlehdRhLkNC3kO4ZQ6mGMLKCQPufesS1y43E28P4aPKQ8B0M2r_4fiy/s320/5477.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhba_QcrWORmdC4JOYZWam3yX8VnTA3ysBM1aA-_zWefPAie0HJ6Br5P_PEPQqcKJYsd4w3aEjCGx339XkDEB8RPyjCbW5cKWdFuJBgbULBDsabUFI_pUK3N7tQpFpBh3oqDr0ZinupfBx8/s1600-h/5475.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094580301525907058" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhba_QcrWORmdC4JOYZWam3yX8VnTA3ysBM1aA-_zWefPAie0HJ6Br5P_PEPQqcKJYsd4w3aEjCGx339XkDEB8RPyjCbW5cKWdFuJBgbULBDsabUFI_pUK3N7tQpFpBh3oqDr0ZinupfBx8/s320/5475.jpg" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-90631371708428837972007-07-27T16:46:00.000-06:002007-07-27T16:50:28.135-06:00Fresh Ideas!Three NPL librarians attended the 2007 conference of the American Library Association, and each brought back ideas for a new building as well as ideas for improved services. They returned with books. They brought back flyers and brochures about library furnishings and equipment. They made contacts with vendors. They took notes at programs about library services and facilities.<br /><br />A few quotes about library buildings from their reports:<br />· Browsing activities should be seen from the street – seeing other people looking at books draws other people into the library. <br />· A library is important as ‘people space,’ similar in some ways to a bookstore. <br />· Images showed children’s spaces featuring lots of curves and flow, and one showed an outdoor garden for children.<br />· Signage and graphics were extremely important to give people a feeling of empowerment.<br />· Clear clutter and improve basic cleanliness, which is very important to customers.<br />· A café or coffee shop connects people to the library.NPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-55019124152584503862007-07-13T15:49:00.000-06:002007-08-07T12:01:43.190-06:00Wifi at the Library?You bet! Wifi technology is planned for the new library building and it should be robust and accessible in all of the planned nooks and comfy seating. Imagine being able to read your email from anywhere in the library with your own computer. Not only will you have access to all of your own materials but it will free up the public internet computers for more people. Of course, we plan to have even more public internet access computers in the new space—it will be a great place to work and explore!<br /><br />Even better--Nampa Public Library started a pilot Wireless Internet program in our current building. Several of our customers have already found the new service useful. So when you see someone using the internet on a laptop—they are probably using wifi!<br /><br />To learn more about wifi click <a href="http://www.howstuffworks.com/wireless-network.htm">here </a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-22899235660457902192007-07-06T15:46:00.000-06:002007-07-06T15:48:09.415-06:00Shhh! We want QUIET!Library enthusiasts at public forums and other discussions see-sawed on the question of quiet spaces versus reasonably noisy spaces. The conclusion was always that Nampa needs both, and our new library should have room for both kinds of library environment. People should be comfortable using normal ‘inside’ voices in high traffic areas and children’s or teen areas, and those who want a very quiet place should be able to enjoy a quiet reading/study lounge – without cell phones. Requests for quiet areas came from the teen focus group as well as the general ones! If you prefer a very quiet environment in which to read and study, look forward to a glass enclosed area with a view! The building program calls for a quiet reading room, with six lounge chairs and 12 individual study tables. Preliminary sketches have a gas fireplace in the reading room. <br /><br />Karen GanskeNPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-53905647402785133142007-06-28T08:35:00.000-06:002007-08-07T12:01:17.689-06:00Unsung heroes helped lay foundation for a new library<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgniZmNAnUvHXj0ChDsD3NFRNAzD0HCabkuRSVk5fFcNCSrqusCAZz32ciq1Ppc4GwgKLhahoZgmrtgArVgCu6k4Mo90mC4UnT7uzd4flTN1mioGrlbLvlpfVHsrpUiA5Wys7wPC9l-NoQ/s1600-h/New+Image.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5081124870735746514" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgniZmNAnUvHXj0ChDsD3NFRNAzD0HCabkuRSVk5fFcNCSrqusCAZz32ciq1Ppc4GwgKLhahoZgmrtgArVgCu6k4Mo90mC4UnT7uzd4flTN1mioGrlbLvlpfVHsrpUiA5Wys7wPC9l-NoQ/s320/New+Image.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div>Longtime Library Board members Ed Schiller and Laurene Stanford were honored Thursday night at Nampa’s premier downtown block party. They helped envision the new library and worked hard toward its creation. On behalf of the existing Library Board of Trustees, Mayor Tom Dale presented engraved bookends that express appreciation for their service.<br />“Their contributions have helped make the Nampa Public Library a vibrant cultural hub of the city,” Dale said before the event.<br />The Downtown Nampa Nights features live music, hot food and beverages every Thursday night, a festive venue for briefly recognizing community accomplishments.<br />Schiller, who served on the Library Board from 1988 to 2006, is secretary for the Downtown Nampa Association and can be seen serving up beer or hot dogs at the back of the crowd and in front of his law office. The presentation was a surprise.<br />Schiller served 18 years on the board that oversaw dramatic improvements at the Library including establishing the online catalogue, public computers, courier service to other libraries, the strategic plan, committee for a new library and the electronic system for self-checkout.<br />Stanford served on the board from 1997 to 2007 and was a leader in the early stages of preparing for a new building. She was instrumental in improving communication between the library and local schools, developing evaluations for the library director and strategic planning. She is still an active volunteer.<br />The Library Board decided recently to honor both former members for their outstanding contributions.<br />Library Director Karen Ganske said both “served with great distinction, offering countless hours to the library and never failing to support its mission.”<br />“Ed served a partial term plus three five-year terms,” said Ganske, which is “unprecedented in modern times.” </div>NPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-17640775607392784612007-06-22T15:27:00.000-06:002007-06-22T17:26:11.212-06:00Teens contribute to library plans & services!<div>Our community teens are fabulous! They help run the summer reading program by volunteering their time and labor to various programs. Our teens take the time to tell us what is on their minds by submitting purchase requests and asking questions.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>While at a preconference for the American library Association Conference in Washington DC today I found that again and again our teens are valuable resources who help move our services forward and keep us up-to-date. Our teens can help lead the way to the new world of technology. </div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>So what are we doing for our teens? We want to provide more opportunities for teens to make a difference in the library. Our first Teen group started a few weeks ago and will have its second meeting next week on June 26th at 4PM. Our teens will help determine (and provide) programs for teens. Our teens will help create/conceptualize the new Teen Space at the new library. Our teens rock and it will be great to help create a space and programming for them in our new building!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-83321091444673251392007-06-22T14:15:00.000-06:002007-06-22T17:28:47.589-06:00Space for FriendsThe building program for the new library includes a Friends of the Library sales area of 230 square feet right off the beautiful spacious entrance lobby, including display shelving, a display case, and donation station. It also calls for a Friends Workroom of 650 square feet. Imagine being an active member of this group and having work space that includes a computer, work table with 4 chairs, 10 double faced sections of shelving to organize donations, a counter with a sink and microwave. This vision is a far cry from the leftover bits of unfinished basement vault area that they must work in now! These spaces are planned for because Friends members were involved in brainstorming sessions for the new library. Join the Friends of Nampa Public Library now and help enliven this future space. Friends are busy planning for their August book sale, writing their Summer Newsletter, and redesigning their membership structure and form. Last year they donated $10,000 for children’s furnishings in the new library, and they are building towards another large donation. Find membership information and book sale dates on the library website.NPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-39155375006402129312007-06-15T17:36:00.001-06:002007-06-15T17:44:27.143-06:00Performance and Program Space Desperately Needed<p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBcbs-1ryOevZ77R7fDa8Pvumpl9vdKX7PelZ_OXwntopLqaqc1RW3PNNDoTynJ92gu5oFQhjNC-58QIjt4A2JW2U9q59pvbUDK2taG76tLxNbzSD6IJQTdczFRJEMpv1JgVZq62_oDag/s1600-h/Crowded-during-reptiles.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5076440121351278146" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBcbs-1ryOevZ77R7fDa8Pvumpl9vdKX7PelZ_OXwntopLqaqc1RW3PNNDoTynJ92gu5oFQhjNC-58QIjt4A2JW2U9q59pvbUDK2taG76tLxNbzSD6IJQTdczFRJEMpv1JgVZq62_oDag/s320/Crowded-during-reptiles.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Just yesterday during the reptile Thursday Family Program several people expressed enthusiasm for the new library and all of its anticipated available spaces. We had over 487 attendees and were mostly wall-to-wall (to-aquarium). We had 7 presenters and many reptiles which would have loved to be spread out for more viewing access.<br /><br />The anticipated adjacent plaza will extend our potential service area year round and will create more program options such as a storytime in the park, more Summer Reading Kickoff Party space as well as performance and display areas for the Thursday Family Programs.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-9132836817151465622007-06-08T14:36:00.000-06:002007-06-08T14:39:41.123-06:00Window Seats, nooks and special viewsSeveral of our wonderful contest entries brought me a vivid memory from my childhood. Essays mentioned “Cozy window seats,” “Soft window seats,” “Beanbag chairs and window seats,” and “in a window seat reading National Geographic KIDS.” Other entries described views from a new library. Many young people and adults wrote about having variety of spaces within a library that are perfect for encounters with books that enrich our lives.<br /><br />When I was young Mom took me to the downtown Pasadena Public Library once a week, before our neighborhood branch was built and I could walk to the library. My own special spot downtown was a window seat in the children’s stacks near the folklore section. The ‘view’ was a green cave formed by overgrown shrubbery outside. The smell was warm and dusty. With the big books by Howard Pyle about Robin Hood or the Knights of the Round Table, I would read in the window seat for hours, enjoying my own special place and strengthening my sense of adventure and my imagination. <br /><br />Karen GanskeNPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-76817651629589766342007-06-01T15:39:00.000-06:002007-06-01T16:17:34.150-06:001+1+1=5?We have heard positive comments about the possibilities for a new Nampa library on a daily basis for years, but there was a definite increase in the ‘buzz’ when renderings were published showing the full-block plaza, city hall and retail stores right next to the library. For some people, it was the plaza across the street that finally got them excited and eager to see the entire project move forward, asking where, when, and ‘how can we help?” <br />“The best type of public spaces are ones where various activities are combined or triangulated. My favorite hypothetical example is a square that has a library and a coffee shop. The library has a children's reading room that's next to a playground, at the edge of which is a coffee shop for parents. In front of the library you'd have a square, for weekly markets, seasonal events, art shows, performances.” - Fred Kent<br />Read more about how synergy works with downtown libraries at:<br />http://www.pps.org/info/press/articles_about/trp_jan_2004 or <a href="http://www.pps.org/info/press/articles_about/trp_jan_2004" target="blank"> here</a>.<br />- Karen GanskeNPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-395188906663716166.post-59843722262389060052007-05-25T14:37:00.000-06:002007-05-25T14:38:40.286-06:00How Green can we make our new library?A news article earlier this month starts “Nampa officials are considering adopting green building standards they say will make future city buildings more efficient to maintain and healthier for people and the environment.” What would a LEED rating for a new library mean? I always knew it had to do with environmental concerns, but now I know it also means more natural light, better heating and cooling, more comfortable spaces and healthier air. There would be savings for the taxpayer on electricity (it can take plenty to light, heat and cool this building, and still be too hot or cold, with dim stack areas and uncomfortable glare on computer screens). For employees it means better staff retention, fewer health issues, and more productivity. For everyone it will mean a more comfortable building and doing the right thing for our community. I’m looking forward to hearing what comes next with LEED plans.<br />Karen GanskeNPL Staffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00142916513045596051noreply@blogger.com2