Today Joyce visited the downtown library as a representative of the Media Center. Accompanying her were two MC interns who rolled camera and will be producing a video. Joyce took some stills for us and handed in this report. Thank you, Joyce! Where would we be without our cadre of volunteers?
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| Children's Area at the Downtown Library |
The public is invited to attend the grand opening on Saturday, July 16, from 9:30 to 6.
Special events at the grand opening will include a ribbon cutting ceremony and storytelling session by Palo Alto mayor Sid Espinosa. The street in front of the main entrance across from City Hall will be closed off, and there will be information booths from local support groups, treats for all, and entertainment including a magician, puppet shows, and the highly anticipated “Cowgirl Karen.”
According to former mayor and current library foundation president, Bern Beecham, the library has been transformed from a dark cramped space, to a more useable facility with better access to the light and outdoor areas, and a more attractive computer area.
Jim Schmidt of the Friends of the Palo Alto pointed out that a public library has occupied nearly this same space in downtown for well over 100 years, including the Carnegie Library where City Hall now stands.
The remodeling project came in on schedule and under budget, owing in part to the downturn in the economy which lowered construction costs from the projected 4.4 million dollars to about 3.3 million dollars.
The Group 4 architects credit the City of Palo Alto for encouraging high participation and input from the community, and the architects feel that the new design reflects the community’s values. The design may qualify for LEED silver certification, for environmental and energy efficiency.
The library includes self-check-out, a small section for the Friends of the Library book sale, a group study room, and a meeting space that can be rented by the community.
The most charming space by far is the new children’s area which was a gift from the Friends of the Palo Alto Library. With magnetic paint in a cheerful lime green, small cozy turquoise chairs, a child-sized computer station, poufs to sit on, and a child-sized stage area, the neighborhood children and their families will greatly enjoy this
improved space.
The library is planning to hold author evenings and family fun nights.
The Palo Alto Garden Club provided flowers, and Whole Foods donated refreshments.
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| Light Fixture in Meeting Room |
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| Bookshelf Area |
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| Library Director Monique le Conge and Library Foundation President Bern Beecham |
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| Work Stations |
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| Spacious Walkway |
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