The Seattle Public Library

Libraries for All

Proposed
1998 Capital plan
for the
Seattle Public Library

Submitted March 13, 1998

Lake City Library

Needs and Opportunities:

The Lake City Library has been upgraded since 1986 at a cost of $210,199, but growing use has strained the capacity and efficiency of the existing building. Fortunately, Lake City occupies a large site able to accommodate expansion and reconfiguration of program and staff areas.

Recommendations:

Renovate and expand existing building by 5,987 square feet to provide:

  • Total program space of 15,000 square feet

  • Added seating and collection space

  • Multi-purpose meeting room with kitchenette

  • New public conference and study room

  • Upgraded technology services and equipment

  • More efficient lobby and circulation desk

  • Better electrical service and lighting

  • Expanded work areas and loading dock

  • Energy-efficient windows throughout

  • Expanded service at 60 hours per week

  • Expanded book collection

Estimated capital costs: $2,904,000

Next Steps: Assuming approval of capital bonds, the community will be invited to participate in design and service development discussions for an expanded Lake City Library to open in 2002.

Lake City at a Glance: Address: 12501 28th Ave. N.E., 98125
Phone: 684-7518
Librarian: Beth de la Fuente
1997 circulation: 304,684 materials checked out
In-house activity: 80,007 uses of materials
Information services: 71,462 reference questions answered
Current facility: Built 1965, 9,013 square feet
Currently open 57 hours, 6 days per week

Service profile: This busy library houses a popular computer learning lab and homework center providing volunteer assistance for students, tutoring sessions, and educational games and activities. Its general and youth collections are heavily used. Lake City hosts two adult book discussion groups, weekly "Rock n' Read" storytelling hours, preschool and family story hours, and "Talk Time" sessions for recent immigrants to practice and improve their English skills. Lake City enjoys the active support of many volunteers and a neighborhood "Friends of the Public Library" group.

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Last modified: 24 March 1998