Library News

DCPL Capital Construction Website

Looking at the WayBack Machine archives, note that this is the first time DCPL announced news regarding the redesign of the four branch libraries, March 2003.

Capital Construction Program

The District of Columbia Public Library (DCPL) has undertaken a Capital Construction Program that reflects the library's vision as "A recognized force in the community for engaging the mind, expanding opportunities and elevating the quality of life." Central to this vision is a belief that equitable access to information, tailored to customer needs, equips people to learn all their lives, embrace diversity and build a thriving city.

To make this vision a reality for the community, DCPL will begin renovating/reconstructing library facilities so they are safe, comfortable, and inspire reading, learning and personal growth.

The Capital Construction Program will begin with the renovation/reconstruction of these neighborhood libraries:

* Anacostia
* Benning
* Tenley-Friendship
* Watha T. Daniel/Shaw

While these branches are being renovated or reconstructed, others in the system will be refurbished until they are scheduled for renovation or reconstruction. Libraries will be scheduled for renovation or reconstruction in a manner that will create the least amount of service interruption to the community.
The Renovate/Construct Process

A Design/Build Request for Proposals for the District of Columbia Public Library solicitation was issued in December 2002. (Design/build means that the respondents possess the capability of providing both architectural and construction services.) The closing date was January 31, 2003. Twelve (12) proposals were received. As allowed in the Request For Proposals, offers were submitted for one, two, three or for all four libraries. The Technical and Price evaluation processes have been completed and the selected Contractor(s) will be announced shortly.

Upon receipt of a Notice To Proceed (NTP), the Contractor will have 890 days to design and renovate/reconstruct the library(ies).

Design/Build Implementation

The Design/Build process will be implemented in three phases:
Phase I - Programming

In the Programming Stage the spatial and physical characteristics and systems for the buildings will be developed. The process will be as follows:

* Focus groups, consisting of library representatives and patrons, will meet on a bi-weekly basis with the Contractor to program the library;
* The Contractor will, at a minimum, hold monthly meetings with the focus groups to review the program format;
* The Contractor will submit the Final Building Program to the focus groups and DCPL 60 calendar days after receipt of the NTP.

Phase II - Design Development

The Design Development phase is where the size and character of the structures will be determined. This phase is to be completed 160 calendar days from completion and acceptance of the Final Building Program. The Design Development phase includes four (4) community input meetings on the following schedule:

1. The first meeting being held prior to the start of the design;
2. The second meeting, thirty percent (30%) design development drawing will be presented by the Contractor;
3. The third meeting, seventy percent (70%) design development drawings will be presented;
4. The fourth meeting, one hundred percent (100%) design development drawings will be presented.

Phase III Construction

The construction phase shall begin upon acceptance of the design and the receipt of the appropriate permit(s) from the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA). Time allotted for the construction phase is 670 calendar days from completion and acceptance of the Design Development phase.

Calendar of Events

Monday, March 24 - Copies of the Master Plan will be available for viewing by the public at all District of Columbia Public Library locations.

Upcoming in April or May will be a Public Hearing regarding the rezoning of public libraries. Please watch this website for a specific date and location.
Zoning

The Anacostia, Watha T. Daniel/Shaw and TenleyFriendship Neighborhood Libraries are zoned as residential lots. They should be zoned as commercial lots. In order for DCPL to move forward with the renovate/reconstruct process, the libraries must be rezoned. DCPL will appear before the Zoning Commission on March 10, 2003 at 1:30 p.m. for a setdown hearing for a text amendment to change the zoning of public libraries.

Approximately 60 days after the Zoning meeting a public hearing will be scheduled where the community can express it's support for the rezoning of public libraries. Please watch the website for the exact date.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. When will the libraries scheduled for renovation/reconstruction close?

Closing dates for Anacostia, Benning, TenleyFriendship and Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Neighborhood Libraries will be determined upon the issuance of the Notice to Proceed (NTP) to the Contractor.

2. Will provisions be made for patrons to have library services during the renovation/construction?

Patrons will be asked to use the services of other libraries in their immediate communities as well as other branches in the DCPL system. Find another library near you.

3. What will happen to the books, materials and computers during the renovation/construction period?

The Library is developing a plan and schedule for the distribution and storage of books, materials and equipment during the renovation/construction period.

4. Have you considered public/private partnerships?

DCPL has considered public/private partnerships. We are very interested in meeting and discussing such a relationship with private sector entities that have the real interest and financial wherewithal to make such a relationship economically viable for both parties.

5. How can I become a part of the focus group?

Individuals interested in being a member of the focus group for your respective library should contact either the Branch Librarian or the President of your Friends Group.
Contact Us

Please send us your comments and questions.

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