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Universal Branch Building Program: Return to UBBP Table of Contents
14.3 Design Issues publish date: 14 March 2000
14.0 Parking, Staff Entrance, Landscaping14.1 Function
These areas need to be carefully designed to be functional, attractive, and provide the maximum safety and security.
The parking lot needs to be as close as possible to the public entrance of the library and safety of people walking to the library, from the parking lot, and of vehicles entering and leaving the parking lot needs to be carefully studied.
The parking lot needs to be well lighted and visible from the street and the library in order to discourage vandalism and other criminal activities. If visibility is limited, other security measures such as cameras may need to be considered.
The staff entrance needs to be well lighted and located in an area clearly visible from the street as staff often leaves in the dark after the library is closed. Staff parking needs to be located near by.
The staff entrance will also be used for deliveries. The library system uses step vans and other deliveries will come by truck, van and car. The site layout and must provide for vehicle access and a level entry level if possible. In the 10,000 and 15,000 square foot facilities loading docks are desirable.
This entrance should be roofed in order to protect staff and deliveries from the weather.
The staff entrance should have a doorbell and peephole so staff inside can see who is requesting entry.
The staff entrance should utilize an electronic key card access system.
Lighting and other controls need to be located properly so that staff can close down the library from a single point and exit safely through the staff entrance.
The entire building will be protected by a building security system.
Landscaping should be low maintenance, incorporate automatic watering systems, and be appropriate and attractive.
Landscaping should not interfere with sight lines around the building or provide hiding places.