Design takes another step

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. 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.

Dan Black

Library Buildings 2007: Going, Going Green

This is the title of the annual summary of data on new library buildings in the USA. Library Journal reports that the buildings “are truly allowing us to catch sight of the future.” 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.

Karen Ganske, Director
To see more photos of this green library visit the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library website.

Rooftop Garden Planned

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.

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.

These pictures were taken at the rooftop garden of the Salt Lake City Public Library this past summer.