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

University Library Needs and Opportunities: One of Seattle's first three Carnegie- funded neighborhood libraries, University was designed by W. Marbury Somervell and Joseph Cote. It opened in 1910 and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Despite extensive renovations made since 1986 at a cost of $724,811, the building lacks air conditioning and its interior spaces need to be reorganized to improve efficiency and accessibility. Recommendations: Renovate the existing building to provide: Expanded book collection New seating and shelving More efficient circulation desk and work areas New computer work stations and study areas More electrical, communications and computer connections Elevator access to the multi-purpose meeting room Upgraded technology services and equipment Air conditioning Energy-efficient windows throughout Expanded service at 60 hours per week Estimated capital costs: $759,000 Next Steps: Assuming passage of the capital bonds, the community will be invited to participate in design and service development discussions for a renovated University Library to be completed in 2005.

University at a Glance: Address: 5009 Roosevelt Way N.E. 98105 Phone: 684- 4063 Librarian: Don Miller 1997 circulation: 137,983 materials checked out In-house activity: 18,189 uses of materials Information services: 8,219 reference questions answered Current facility: Built 1914, renovations since 1986; 8,140 square feet Currently open 48 hours, 6 days per week Service profile: Reflecting the cosmopolitan character of the University District, this library serves students and recent immigrants with an extensive collection of materials printed in Spanish, Russian, and Chinese. It also offers a major English- as-a-second-language collection, "Citizenship Center," and "Talk Time" programs for practicing spoken English. Materials on career development and a collection of college catalogues from around the nation attract many U of W students, and tutors and their students often gather in the library's Children's Room. The meeting room hosts many community meetings and programs for area residents.

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Last modified: 24 March 1998