Here is a note from Robin Diener to the Federation of Friends dated March 24, 2009...
=============
Dear Federation Friends of DCPL,
Three short articles about Baltimore county's first all-new library in 20 years (the last opened in 1988). I have culled some items of interest immediately below. Full articles follow after with links.
* A suburban library so lots of parking and a drive through window!
* Total space is 25,000 square feet on one floor. DC's Blue Ribbon Task Force on the Library recommended 20,000 square feet on one floor, although the new Anacostaia, Benning, Tenley and Watha Daniel/Shaw libraries and the restored Georgetown are to be 20,000+ on two and three floors due to site constraints and the historic nature of the existing Georgetown branch.
* Teen area. DCPL has been planning special teen areas for DC's new libraries. A special teen space at MLK is currently being constructed.
* Childrens area -- 3200 sq feet.
* Environmentally "green" building, including a bike rack and shower for employees who bicycle to work.
* Dramatically increased circulation. DC is experiencing these increases too, at the interims, and at the "madeover" SE and Takoma branches, as well as throughout the system.
* Fireplace in adult reading room.
* Cost $7 million -- Paid for by property "transfer" taxes set aside during the housing boom specifically to build schools, libraries, and community centers.
Yours,
Robin
Secretary, Federation of Friends of DCPL
431-9254
LIBRARY
DYNAMOS