Libraries for All Proposed 1998 Capital plan for the Seattle Public Library Submitted March 13, 1998

North East Library Needs and Opportunities: Built in 1954 to serve the Wedgwood, Hawthorne Hills and Bryant neighborhoods, the North East Library has achieved a level of patronage second only to the Central Library. This heavy use has outstripped the existing building and taken its toll on facilities despite $140,445 in repairs completed since 1986. Fortunately, the Seattle Public Library already owns adjacent lots to permit expansion of the present site. Recommendations: Renovate and expand the existing building by 7,958 square feet to provide: Total program area of 15,000 square feet Multi-purpose meeting room with kitchenette Expanded seating and book collection New computer work stations and instructional areas Improved lighting New carpeting Improved seismic safety in existing building Upgraded technology services and equipment Expanded parking Energy-efficient windows throughout Expanded book collection Estimated capital costs: $4,665,000 Next Steps: Assuming passage of the capital bonds, the community will be invited to participate in design and service development discussions for an expanded North East Library to open in 2003.

North East at a Glance: Address: 6801 35th Ave. N.E. 98115 Phone: 684-7539 Librarian: Elizabeth Yee 1997 circulation: 493,342 materials checked out In-house activity: 62,705 uses of materials Information services: 59,778 reference questions answered Current facility: Built 1954, repairs since 1986; 7,042 square feet Currently open 64 hours, 7 days per week Service profile: The North East Library hosts popular story times for toddlers and preschoolers, as well as an adult book discussion group. Staff members also work closely with teachers at nearby schools to provide library support for homework assignments. The Reader's Advisory, offered to North East Library users of all ages, is a unique specialty of the branch. Beginning in April 1998, the library will offer a personalized user education service for the Quest Catalogue System. The North East Library is supported by a cadre of volunteers and a neighborhood Friends of the Seattle Public Library group that actively advocates for the library in the North East community.

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Last modified: 24 March 1998