Plans for the long-awaited new library are in full swing. City staff, architects, and community stakeholders have been working hard this past year to complete the design of building and grounds for the new facility. A request for qualifications (RFQ) has gone out to construction firms interested in building the new library. This process allows the city to review the qualifications of future bidders to ensure that we receive bids from contractors who have experience in building facilities of similar size and complexity. Work on the building will begin in early spring with a completion set for spring of 2011.

Interior spaces, based on resident feedback as to how they want to use the library, were developed early in the process. Interior designers joined the committee to refine areas and work on interior colors and furnishings.
One of our goals has been to make a strong connection with Hobble Creek and the view of the mountains. The main floor of the library will be 30,000 sq ft. which is approximately the size of the main floor of the new Civic Center. An additional 10,000 sq. ft. second floor will be on the east side of the building to house staff and volunteers and to provide for future growth.
Some of the features:

* Children’s areas on the west side adjacent to a dividable multipurpose room. Raised ceilings featuring clerestory windows allow natural light to flow into the area.

* Adult areas and comfortable seating on the east side of the library to take advantage of the morning light and views

* More computers with age delineation.

* A quiet-only computer room.

* Teens have their own area–and computers.

* 2 study rooms.

* The southeast corner of the 2nd floor set aside as a roof top garden area. At certain times of the year this will be open for residents to step outside and take a green break to read a book.

Most of the staff functions will be housed on the 2nd floor. As our community grows, expansion can take place on the remainder of the 2nd floor.
Demolition of the old Police and Fire Station is scheduled for March. The timing on this will coincide closely with new construction so that the excavation can remain open. Bids for demolition will be posted on the city’s website.