The Seattle Public Library

Libraries for All

Proposed
1998 Capital plan
for the
Seattle Public Library

Submitted March 13, 1998

Fremont Library

Needs and Opportunities:

Designed by Daniel R. Huntington and opened in 1921, this charming California Mission-style, Carnegie-funded Library is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Renovations totaling $653,212 have occured since 1987 and includes 6,060 square feet of program space. This area needs to be reorganized to expand seating and improve sightlines and efficiency, and its electrical, mechanical and ventilation systems are due for an overhaul.

Recommendations:

Rehabilitate the existing building and convert 780 square-foot storage area to public and staff use for:

  • Total program space of 6,840 square feet

  • Additional seating

  • Expanded book collection

  • More computer work stations

  • Air conditioning

  • Better access to parking

  • More efficient lobby, circulation desk and work areas

  • Energy-efficient windows throughout

  • Expanded service at 48 hours per week

Estimated capital costs: $554,000

Next Steps: Assuming approval of capital bonds, the community will be invited to participate in design and service development discussions for a renovated Fremont Library to be completed in 2004.

Fremont at a Glance:

Address: 731 N. 35th St., 98103
Phone: 684-4084
Librarian: Val Frye
1997 circulation: 83,403 materials checked out
In-house activity: 7,590 uses of materials
Information services: 9,830 reference questions answered
Current facility: Built 1921, renovations since 1987; 6,060 square feet
Currently open 40 hours, 6 days per week

Service profile: Reflecting the diversity and high energy of the Fremont neighborhood, this library serves a wide range of users and tastes. It hosts popular story hours for toddlers and preschoolers and attracts many adult readers. Artists and students at Seattle Pacific University and the University of Washington make heavy use of its collections, and its meeting room is popular with local groups. Staff also work closely with social agencies to serve a large number of indigent and homeless patrons.

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Last modified: 24 March 1998