Working collaboratively, we hope to create a vision plan for the library that includes solving current site issues such as erosion, tree loss, drainage, and accessibility, while also creating more inviting, programmable exterior spaces that meet the needs of the community. Increasing the ecological performance of the site will also help meet the city’s sustainability goals. Help us plan for what a refresh of the library's exterior spaces could be. We envision a future with more sustainable, more accessible spaces--inside and out--that support a thriving and resilient community.
Impacts of climate change can be seen on the library’s site. Heavy rainfall over the spring and summer caused the elm tree on 3rd Street to tip over, damaging the roots. It, along with a linden tree shading the west patio, have been removed. Added to that, an ash tree at the bottom of the steps on Division Street is being treated for emerald ash borer, which may eventually require removal.
Evidence of considerable erosion can be seen in the amount of soil washed down the Division Street steps with each rainfall. Frost heaving has already caused the concrete walkways leading from Washington Street to the library to crack and shift.
In addition to addressing these impacts, the vision plan seeks to reduce labor expenses and water use by minimizing or eliminating lawn, reducing pavement where feasible and shading the space as much as possible to diminish summer heat accumulation.
Additional goals include improving access to and from the building, increasing ADA-accessible patio spaces to accommodate visitors of all ages and abilities, making the unused spaces more functional for community use, and addressing stormwater handling on site to reduce the amount of stormwater running into the river. Having an actionable plan informed by community input will position us to take advantage of grant funding, reducing the financial impact to the city.
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