FAQs: The Washington Highlands Library Project
Frequently Asked Questions
What will happen to the current library during construction?
Your current library will remain open during the design phase. The current library will close just prior to construction and an interim library will open. The interim library will remain open during normal library hours throughout the construction period. The interim library will have many of the same activities and services as your current library.
How long will it be before we have a new library?
It should take a little more than 3 years to plan, design, build and open your new library.
Access to technology and adult literacy are important in Ward 8. How will this be addressed?
Library programs, services and activities that are important to and needed in your community will be offered at your new library. The DC Public Library hosts a “Hopes & Dreams” meeting early in the process to determine what programs are most important to you. This information, coupled with demographic data from your community, helps us plan for services in your library.
How were the architects selected?
A selection committee made up of DC Public Library staff, a Library Board member, an independent architect and community members recommended by Council member Barry’s office selected the architect.
Will the building be environmentally friendly or “green?”
The library will be designed to reduce the impact on the environment and save money on energy costs. While the environmentally friendly design elements are determined as the building plans become more specific, we are seeking a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification of Silver which means:
Reduce the energy needed to heat, cool and power the building
Reduce the use of water
Minimize the pollution released
Increase the comfort of occupants
What is flexible or open space and why is it important to the Library?
Flexible or open space allows for the Library to implement a variety of activities in a number of locations throughout the building without being limited by space dedicated for a specific purpose. This allows for the Library to meet the needs of your community now and in the future.
Advances in technology also have improved the way we access information, eliminating the need for dedicated space for things like card catalogs and computer labs. For example, at one time computers had to be in one room because they were not portable and that was the only way to offer Internet access. Now, laptops and wireless technology allow computers to be located and used throughout a library.
When will the community see the design? And how can we provide feedback?
There are a number of ways that you can get updates and provide feedback on the design of and programs for your new library. The DC Public Library will host several community meetings where you have a chance to tell us about the programs that are most important to you, view the design sketches or images, offer feedback and ask questions. You can also see the images, get progress reports and offer feedback at your neighborhood library or on our web site, dclibrary.org.
What is the budget for the new library? Is it fully funded?
The total cost for the new library is around $14 to $16 million. Roughly, $9.5 million is used to build the new library. The remaining funds are used to design the building and buy furniture, books, computers and equipment for the building.
Yes. The library is fully funded. Funding was approved by the City Council and includes a $2 million contribution by the DC Department of Housing and Community Development to be used on the library’s design.
Will this construction result in jobs in this community? If so, when and what kind?
Yes. The Library’s contractor will hold a job fair close to the start of construction. Local employment opportunities will be available for mechanics, masons, carpenters, laborers and others to work on the project.
What security measures will be implemented in the interim and new libraries?
The libraries will have closed-circuit cameras and other security measures.
Will the recommendations from the Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Commission Report be addressed in the new library? If so, how?
Library construction is one of the most important ways the Library is addressing the Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Commission Report. As recommended in the report, the new building will be an inviting place that allows people to interact. It will have natural light and be environmentally friendly. It will use open and flexible space allowing for various programs, services and activities to happen throughout the building. More specific information on how your new library will meet the report’s recommendations will be made available as the design unfolds.
For more Congress Heights and River East news visit The Congress Heights Examiner website, http://www.examiner.com/x-13507-Congress-Heights-Community-Examiner
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