CREW Blue Ribbon Awards Program Book 2024

Meriden Public Library Meriden, CT

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Owner : City of Meriden Project Size : 60,600 SF Project Team: TSKP STUDIO, Architects, Montagno Construction Inc., RZ Design, Apex Lighting Solutions, Jaffe Holden, D'Agostino & Associates, Michael Horton Associates, SLR, Fuss & O’Neill, Adams Ahern, BL Companies Built in 1973, the 55,000 sq. ft. library still had original mechanical and electrical systems that were upgraded with energy-efficient systems. The roof was replaced and skylights were introduced. The program reorganized library functions and interior space, and an outdoor wi-fi equipped courtyard was added. The 5,600 sq. ft. addition on the southwest side of the existing building greatly expanded meeting facilities and multi-purpose rooms. The library's mission is to provide a community center for educational and cultural activities, independent learning, and family literacy. On a limited budget, the design focused on the highest priorities, an expanded children's area, a dedicated teen room, and additional meeting rooms and collaborative spaces. The Library was relocated to a temporary space in Meriden Mall during construction. With the completion of the project, the library was once again located in the heart of the downtown area, within walking distance for many lower-income residents. There has been a dramatic increase in visits, and the meeting rooms have been used heavily both during the day and after hours. In 2018, the library held 1,597 programs with an attendance of 8,928. After the renovation, from July 2023 - January 2024, the library held only 489 programs, but the attendance was 15,029. That is a 41% increase in patron attendance. Since reopening, the library was also able to add eight new staff members, which allowed it to expand its programming and invite more community members to the space. With the addition of a dedicated Teen Center and a Teen Librarian, a cohort of teenagers frequent the library after school and have built a good rapport with the Teen Librarian, which was impossible before the renovation.

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