Nancy Carol Carter, facilitator

MAJOR GOALS FOR THE FUNCTION OR AREA:

Offer community spaces that accommodate a variety of groups at all hours and that offer kitchen facilities adequate for catered events to attract the public and create an income stream.

CRITICAL NEEDS (MUST HAVE):

• One large meeting room with capacity for 50 people
• Two small meeting rooms with capacity for 10-15 people
• Full kitchen, accessible to caterers (possibly by service entrance)
• Meeting rooms need to be adjacent to kitchen and restrooms
• Capability of locking meeting rooms, kitchen, and restrooms off from library for after-hours events
• Adequate parking for community events, with special consideration on safe and accessible entry and safely lighting at night. Seek partnership with other community groups to build underground parking.
• Exhibit space for community history display  (historical photos and objects)  and rotating art exhibits  (2-D and 3-D).
• For large meeting room, full electronic infrastructure and equipment, including wireless network, hard-wired data jacks, digital projector, drop-down screen, sound system. All meeting rooms need very generous electrical outlets throughout.

LESS-CRITICAL (WOULD LIKE TO HAVE): [Everything is critical!]

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS:

• Retain sight lines - no pillars or support columns in large room
• Good acoustics--use sound-absorbing wall coverings and a minimum of hard, echoing surfaces (to accommodate those with diminished hearing and for performances)
• Windows! (very important that large meeting room not be windowless)
• Multi-purpose and adjustable lighting (adaptable for business meetings, social events, dinners, for computer/film projection, performances, and adequate for art installations)
• Sturdy, comfortable chairs with arms (stackable) and small to medium-size folding tables for greater flexibility in configuration (storage space for all tables and chairs is needed)
• Use inviting colors that avoid blandness; include decorative plants
• Misc: install "art tracks" for hanging art; make space for a piano, create tasteful donor recognition.