The Seattle Public Library

Libraries for All

Proposed
1998 Capital plan
for the
Seattle Public Library

Submitted March 13, 1998

Rainier Beach Library

Needs and Opportunities:

The newest of Seattle's neighborhood libraries, Rainier Beach was built in 1981. The building was upgraded in 1986 at a cost of $173,666, but the facility shows the wear and tear of its growing use. The existing structure requires better lighting and sound proofing and a reorganizaton of interior spaces to improve security and efficiency, and it needs, to be expanded to meet current and projected community needs.

Recommendations:

Renovate and expand the existing building by 5,994 square feet to provide:

  • Total program space of 15,000 square feet

  • Expanded seating and book collection

  • New furniture and book stacks

  • Upgraded technology services and equipment

  • More electrical, communications and computer connections

  • More efficient circulation desk and additional work areas

  • Better lighting, acoustics and noise abatement

  • Expanded service at 60 hours per week

  • Improve lighting inside buildings and in parking lot

  • Replace aging HVAC with a more energy-efficient unit

Estimated capital costs: $3,059,000

Next Steps: Assuming passage of the capital bonds, the community will be invited to participate in design and service development discussions for an expanded Rainier Beach Library to be completed in 2007.

Rainier Beach at a Glance: Address: 9125 Rainier Ave. S., 98118
Phone: 386-1906
Librarian: Bobbie Daniel
1997 circulation: 126,674 materials checked out
In- house activity: 69,261 uses of materials
Information services: 88,703 reference questions answered
Current facility: Built 1981, renovated in 1986; 9,007 square feet
Currently open 55 hours, 7 days per week

Service profile: This busy library enjoys the patronage of a culturally diverse community. It has developed special collections and services focusing on African-American issues, Asian language materials, small business operations, job searches, and career development. Its computer learning lab sponsors training in Internet skills for all ages and classes on business and employment. Volunteers assist patrons of all ages with projects in the computer learning lab.

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Last modified: 24 March 1998