The Seattle Public Library

Libraries for All

Proposed
1998 Capital plan
for the
Seattle Public Library

Submitted March 13, 1998

Douglass-Truth Library

Needs and Opportunities:

This historic library was designed by W. Marbury Somervell and Harlan Thomas and named for Henry Yesler when it opened in 1914. The library was later rededicated to honor Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth and was upgraded in 1986 at a cost of $783,147. With only 8,008 square feet of space, Douglass-Truth is now far too small to serve the ethnically diverse Central Area or to adequately house its growing African-American collection. The building also needs access improvements, better lighting and ventilation, and minor repairs. Recommendations: Renovate and expand original building by 6,992 square feet to provide:

  • Total program space of 15,000 square feet

  • More space and better storage for the African-American collection

  • New children's area

  • Larger and more efficient staff work area

  • Additional seating

  • Expanded collection

  • More computer work stations

  • Additional parking

  • Upgraded electrical, mechanical and ventilation systems

  • Energy-efficient windows throughout

  • Expanded service at 60 hours per week

Estimated capital costs: $3,524,000 Next Steps: Assuming approval of capital bonds, the community will be invited to participate in design and service development discussions for a renovated and expanded Douglass-Truth Library to open in 2003.

Douglass-Truth at a Glance:

Address: 2300 E. Yesler Way, 98122
Phone: 684-4704
Librarian: John Sheets
1997 circulation: 109,753 materials checked out
In-house activity: 35,321 uses of materials
Information services: 14,915 reference questions answered
Current facility: Built 1914, renovated in 1986; 8,008 square feet
Currently open 55 hours, 7 days per week

Service profile: The library is a major community resource in the Central Area, attracting large numbers of K-12 students and general readers. It houses a new, state-of-the-art computer center and an extensive collection of books, microforms, periodicals and other materials on African-American history and culture. Its meeting room is heavily used by community groups.

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Last modified: 24 March 1998