Information for Architects, Consultants, Contractors & Bidders
Libraries for All
Capital Program Office:
capital.program@spl.org
1000 Fourth Ave.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-386-4624
Return to "Libraries for All" Neighborhood Libraries main page.
Capacity of Site
The site should be large enough to accommodate the library facility requirements
in a square or rectangular "footprint"; code required parking at grade
or in a parking structure; necessary allowances for setback, zoning requirements,
and suitable landscaping. A site that allows for a single story configuration,
a single story over structured parking, or with all public spaces on a
single story is preferred due to operational cost concerns wherever possible.
Site capacity may also consider anticipated future library service needs.
Availability
The site should be relatively acquirable within the time frame needed
without major conflicts and high legal costs.
Proximity to Other Branches
The location should be no closer than one mile from other branch libraries
in the area, and preferably two miles away from any full service branches,
so that each branch can have an immediate service area of a one-mile radius
without significant overlap.
Accessibility
The site should be in an area frequently visited by all segments of the
primary community being served, close to or on primary streets and transit
routes, and highly visible. It should have convenient access to parking,
and have the capacity to meet all Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
requirements.
Neighborhood and Comprehensive Plan Compatibility
Libraries should be sited to provide a positive contribution to the neighborhood.
The library should be compatible with existing land uses, and the environment
around the future library should support access and use by library patrons
Siting of a new library facility will be consistent with the City's Comprehensive
Plan. Siting decisions will be made after consideration of recommendations
from the neighborhood planning process. Siting decisions may also consider
co-location and joint use opportunities with other public or non-profit
agencies.
Library Program Requirements
The site for a new library building or for space in an existing facility
should provide for a single street level entrance, an open flexible floor
plan with a minimum of load bearing walls and closely placed columns.
Cost
All costs related to each site must be considered including: acquisition
costs; demolition costs of existing buildings; relocation costs of businesses
or residents on the site; any unusual site development costs; any extra
construction costs due to site conditions or configuration; costs of providing
sufficient utility service. Low cost should not be used to justify the
selection of site that does not substantially meet the above criteria.
The cost of land may be evaluated in light of other cost considerations,
such as the trade-off between land cost and the cost of structured parking.
Content modified: 22 August 2000
12/30/2005
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