Berwyn Public Library

New Construction
Abridged Building Program

Ben Bahl
Ana Devine
Debra Orellana
LIS 779: Planning and Design
of Library Spaces
December 11, 2014

CONTENTS
Historical Background
2
Mission and Vision Statements
3
Community Population and Demographics
4
Building Program Goals
4
Proposed Floor Plans
11
New Architectural Design
15
Design Considerations
15
Adjacencies
16
Summary of Spaces
20
Interior Design
22
Sightlines and Wayfinding
22
Selected Room Data Sheets
23
Resource List
29
Appendix I: Furniture Recommendations
31
Appendix II: Lighting Recommendations
34
1

Historical Background
According to Berwyn Public Library Board member Eileen, the Berwyn Public
Library began life in the 1890s as a private lending library. Books were
initially lent out from the home of Berwyns co-founder Charles E. Piper
located at 3427 Oak Park Avenue (Pech, 2008). Several wives of Berwyn
leaders managed the book lending service and during the early 1900s the
lending library donated the books to Emerson School, and the library
disbanded (Pech, 2008).
During the 1920s the library opened as a childrens library by the Berwyn
Womans Club that was serviced by volunteers. After four years, the Berwyn
Womans Club ran a petition drive in effort to establish a public library in
Berwyn. Success happened a year later in 1925 with the development of the
first Berwyn Public Library located in rented space at The Berwyn Club 33rd.
Street and Oak Park Avenue [a tax-supported institution] and the first library
board was established (Pech, 2008).
A central branch was founded in the 1930s and was located in a storefront at
6910 Cermak Road (Pech, 2008). Two additional libraries soon followed, the
North Branch located in Elmwood Avenue and 15th Street and a South
Branch at 3204 Grove Avenue [later reopens at 3118 Oak Park Avenue]
(Pech, 2008). All three branches have undergone several relocations
throughout Berwyn, Illinois. By 1940, the Central Branch had relocated to
City Hall, but closed in 1982.
In the 1950s, centralization of a new Berwyn Public Library was deemed
necessary. Following a successful 1960 referendum, two library buildings
were constructed in 1961 for the North and South Branches. The North
Branch was located at 6420 West 16th. Street, and the South Branch located
at 3400 Oak Park Avenue (Pech, 2008).
During the 1980s, the idea of acquiring new technologies was turned down
by the council and as the Berwyn Community continued to grow through the
1990s,
the need for a new facility became clear. An article by Lisa
Lervolino,Interplan Practice Uses Extensive Rehab Experience to Convert an
Office Building into the New Berwyn Public Library, reveals that the Berwyn
Township had been trying since the early 1990s to replace and consolidate
their two overcrowded, antiquated library branches. (Inland Architect, 1997)
Residents, unwilling to finance a new 55,000 square foot library that would
have cost $7.9 million, defeated two separate referendums. Finally, it was
decided to purchase an existing building that could be modified to meet the
librarys needs (Lervolino, 1997). As a solution, in 1996 the Berwyn Public
Library moved into an existing building at 2701 S. Harlem Avenue that was
previously the Czechoslovak Society of America (CSA) headquarters. (Pech,

2008) Situated on a triangular lot bordered by railroad tracks, Harlem

Avenue, and Riverside Drive, the building presented a few challenges.
The architectural firm Interplan Practice of Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois was
retained to transform the 33,000 sq. ft. office building into a new Berwyn
Public Library (Leverlino, 1997). Lou Narcisi, a partner at Interplan Practice,
defines the 20-year old hexagonal building limestone clad as a distinctive
structure that presented some design challenges: space flow, balancing
library floor loads in a structure conceived as an office building, and making
everything fit within those restrictions. (Inland Architect, 1997).
To keep the renovation costs low, Interplan Practice kept most of the interior
masonry walls as possible, cutting doorways through the walls to create
dedicated spaces for each department (Inland Architect, 1997). One major
challenge was in combining the two library branches into the one centralized
new Berwyn Public Library facility on Harlem Avenue because each library
had a unique array of furniture, equipment, and shelving. The LIS 779 team
agreed the furniture is severely mismatched and visually unappealing so this
building program includes new sustainable furnishings.
The second challenge, according to Interplan Practice, was the relocation of
the buildings entrance, which originally faced the busy intersection of
Harlem Avenue and Riverside Drive (Inland Architect, 1997). Since most of
its patrons come by car and park behind the building, the entrance was
relocated to that side. Patrons then would no longer have to walk around the
building, and the orientation of the interior was completely reversed (Inland
Architect, 1997).
In light of the struggle for space and efficiency faced by Berwyn Public
Library, we recommend the construction of a brand new library building. This
new construction should reflect the needs of both the Berwyn community
and the needs of a library in general and should enable the building to
become a landmark in the present and a viable, flexible, adaptable, and
forward-looking library building for the future.
Mission and Vision Statements
Mission Statement
The Berwyn Public Library supports the community by:
Providing a welcoming and accessible environment in which all individuals
receive professional service and assistance in fulfilling their educational,
research, literacy and entertainment needs.
Educating and empowering the public through the preservation and
distribution of timely and accurate information as guided by the
Principles of Intellectual Freedom.

Approved by the Berwyn Public Library Board of Trustees at their regular

meeting on January 18, 2010.
Vision Statement
As a driving force behind a vibrant and diverse community, the Berwyn
Public Library:
Will strive to offer a stimulating sanctuary where people of all ages and
backgrounds can come together to discover a love of lifelong learning.
Will provide essential and vital services to our citizens in an ever-changing
world. (Mission/Vision, 2010)
According to Library Technology, the Berwyn Public Library collection
contains 160,000 volumes. The library circulates 394,908 items per year. In
addition, the library serves a population of 57,000 residents. (Library
Technology.org, 2014) The goal of the new library building is to enable
Berwyn residents to achieve their educational, research, literacy, and
entertainment needs [] [and] educat[e] and empower the public through
the preservation and distribution of timely and accurate information as
guided by the Principles of Intellectual Freedom. (Ibid.)
Community Population and Demographics
The Berwyn Public Library service area covers approximately 4 square miles
and has a service population of 56,657. The median age is 33.1 with the
male and female population almost evenly divided. Berwyn is a young
community with 8% under the age of five. The largest population group is
between the ages of 25 - 34 and represents 16.1% of the population. The
median household income is $51,192 and 13.8% are below the poverty level.
Demographics
Berwyn boasts a multi-ethnic community of 56,657.
Within that community, residents are:

Hispanic - 33,676 (59.4%)

White alone - 17,592 (31.1%)

Black alone - 3,373 (6.0%)

Asian alone - 1,362 (2.4%)

Two or more races - 512 (0.9%)

American Indian alone - 66 (0.1%)

Other race alone - 74 (0.1%)

Ancestries: Italian (8.5%), German (6.4%), Irish
(5.8%), Czech (2.9%), and English (1.8%).
English speakers - Total:

(6.2%), Polish

47.3% of residents of Berwyn speak English at home. 46.4% of residents

speak Spanish at home. Of those residents, 58% speak English very well,
42% speak English less than very well). 6.2% of residents speak another
language at home. Of those, 68% speak English very well; 32% speak English
less than very well.
Building Program Goals
On October 1, 2014, the LIS 779 team
visited the Berwyn Public Library to
evaluate the internal spaces and
external architecture in order to assess
the overall condition and design of the
spaces relevant to library functions and
users behaviors, shelving, furnishings,
lighting, technology, and adjacencies.
We consulted with then-Library Director
Tammy Clausen regarding our building
program project, after which she provided the
Berwyn
Public Library Strategic Summary Report and Renovation Plans (Welsch
Engineering Inc.1993). Subsequent email conversations with interim Director
Kathy Sexton revealed information about collections. During our visit, we
spoke with library staff members to learn more about the challenges. The
initial design problems of the librarys overall functional spaces was
temporarily resolved by Interplan Practice Architects in order to meet the
librarys needs during the 1990s.
A number of factors indicate the need for a new facility:

The population served by the

library has increased
The demographics of the
population have changed
Interior spaces are inflexible
and neutral or poor
adjacencies
The interior floor plan is tight,
and discourages efficient
traffic patterns within the
building
Wayfinding is adequate but
can be improved

Hexagonal building shape

hinders service and potential
growth
The building does not have
enough space to meet the
needs of users
The library building entrance
does not appear to provide
sufficient space for
wheelchairs
There does not appear to be
sufficient space for future
growth of collections [print
materials]
Insufficient natural daylight

Study spaces do not promote

study; seating and work
surfaces are limited with no
mobility
Shelving in childrens area is
~8.5 feet high; children are
unable to reach or see the

books displayed above

shelves
Spaces on the second floor
are dimly lit and very
secluded
Small exhibit cases placed in
areas with no people traffic

This list format was derived from William Sannwalds Checklist of

Library Building Design Considerations. (2009)

We recommend constructing an entirely new library building because

the current facility lacks flexibility in space design, adaptability, and
the existing hexagonal architecture hinders the librarys overall
potential to support the changes in which the community uses library
space. Our building program goals include an overall expansion of the
facility by approximately 9,755 square feet, which would accommodate
Berwyns growing community of library users, allow for the expansion
of all collections, ensure flexibility of space, and facilitate the
performance of the librarys daily functions. An increase of 13.5% in
architectural space would also provide the ability to increase the
librarys overall collections by 10% and increase the capacity of natural
lighting in the facility by incorporating structural walls of glass in its
design. With this new building, we aim to achieve Fred Schlipfs ideas
of simplicity in design, strength, lighting, comfort, safety and security,
flexibility in use, expandability, and low occupancy costs (2011).

Goals for Landscaping and Exterior

Due to the modern and sleek architectural design of the building,
careful landscape planning will be required. A mature oak tree, which
will be preserved, located east of the proposed entrance will add a
beautiful soft touch of nature to the glass exterior. Additional simple
and easy to maintain plants incorporated into a pedestrian walkway
leading to the grand entrance from the parking lot and street sidewalks
will add interest and beauty to this urban setting.

Further, the local Kiwanis Club has indicated their desire to financially
maintain special landscape features included in the building redesign
for the next five years. Because to their ongoing commitment to the
Berwyn Public Library, the team recommends a plaque be displayed in
honor of the Kiwanis Club of Berwyn near the library entrance.

Goals for Comfort

Goals for the new structure include the extensive use of glass to
include as much natural light as possible; the existing repurposed
structure has extremely small windows that do not allow a significant
amount of natural light into the building. To achieve this goal of natural
light, we urge the consideration of glass wherever possible.

To control the amount of light allowed in through the largely glass

structure, an automated daylighting system should be considered. The
5

entrance will have an open, inviting atmosphere and provide easy

access to spaces on the first floor and access to the lower level and
second floors via stairs and elevator.

Walls should be painted with no-emission paints in light colors to

maximize the reflectivity of natural light in the building. Natural woods
will connect the library with the outside world. We suggest using
locally-sourced lumber whenever possible. Sound dampening ceiling
tiles, wall coverings, and other materials should be utilized wherever
possible and especially in the grand entrance, the childrens
department, and the teen center.

Goals for Sustainability

A major goal for the building as a whole is sustainability and ecological
responsibility; at least, LEED Silver certification is recommended. Any
external glass should be coated for thermal efficiency and the building
should, if possible, be heated by natural gas. Rainwater should be
collected for waste disposal. Interior artificial lighting should be either
light-emitting diode (LED) or compact fluorescent (CFL) and light areas
at appropriate levels. Whenever possible, flooring should be a durable,
responsibly-sourced or recycled material.

We propose the integration of sustainable materials internally and

externally in order to maximize the buildings overall energy efficiency
and long-term use by the community while minimizing the overall cost
in design. The use of non-toxic finishes in durable materials will be
used in the general interior design (furniture materials, wall finishes,
shelves and cabinets, carts, office supplies; flooring, lighting, and
architectural materials (internal and external), and landscaping.

Goals for Lighting

The use of
daylighting in the architectural design will help to
1
reduce
using electric lighting throughout the day. According
to Gregg
D. Anders, FAIA Southern Cal. Edison, daylighting is
the controlled admission of natural light, direct sunlight, and diffuse
skylight into a building to reduce electric lighting and saving energy. By
providing a direct link to the dynamic and perpetually evolving
patterns of outdoor illumination, daylighting helps create a visually
stimulating
and productive environment while reducing as
1
much as
one-third of total building energy costs (U.S. Dept.
of Energy
Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP),
2014).

We suggest floor-toceiling, energy-efficient

glass windows (1) and
tubular daylighting
2
devices (2) (to
2
direct
daylight to central
library spaces and
to the lower level) as part of the daylightresponsive lighting control system
(US.FEMP, 2014). The daylighting system has
options for including light emitting diodes (LEDs) to provide
daylight/illumination as needed by day (think cloudy days) and night.

Additionally, to increase the holistic appeal of the internal architectural

design of spaces, and to add the diffusion of daylight within the first
floor and second floor adjacencies, the installation of frameless glass
walls with a translucent (20% gradient) finish on the glass surface to
add privacy in library areas would be used, such as in offices and teen
space. In keeping with the use of sustainable resources, the glass wall
system would need to meet the AAMA testing standards for heavy
pressure, wind load, and forced entry (NanaWall, 2014). The addition
of swing doors to the frameless glass wall tracking system is an option
for any closed rooms on the second floor, such as the administrative
offices, teen study rooms, and computer learning/training rooms.

Goals for Furnishings

In terms of task seating and collaborative furniture, we recommend
low and roll design features for a flexible and accessible space.
Comfortable task seating that can accommodate collaborative and
interactive work groups is required for all public service areas,
particularly on the second floor and in the Teen Zone. Furnishings with
AC power outlet and a USB portallowing users with laptops, tablets,
and phones to plug in and stay connectedis recommended.

Learn2 Seating (1) - Features a fully

adjustable, dual-handed work
surface. Navigate to www.ki.com for more
information.

1
Acrobat Crescent Desk (2) by Smith System
enables students to gather around resources and
work in groups of two or more. Up to three
desks can cluster around for shared connectivity.
Navigate to www.smithsystem.com for more
information.

Bretford MOTIV (3) Powered Lounge Seating by

Demco offers a more stationary option,
complete with AC power outlets. Navigate to
www.demco.com for more information.

Furniture should, in all cases, be easily cleaned and moved. The

following table lists the furniture recommended for the library,
including all public areas.

Furniture Required by Area and Type

Area

Computer Center
Early Learning Ctr.

Type

Task Chairs

Floor
Cushions

Task

Qua
ntity

SF
Requ
ired

30

750

200

200

seating

Youth Services

Quiet Reading Area

Study Nooks

Teen Zone

300

Study
Carrel

10

300

210

10

280

200

16

300

280

Lounge

Table
Seating

Study
Carrel

Lounge

210

16

Lounge

Task
Seating

Lounge

Table
Seating

20

500

Task Chairs

12

300

140

10

250

172

4,42
0

Lounge

Total

Table
Seating

Square footage estimates were based on Whole Building Design Guide

recommendations.

Goals for Childrens Collections, Youth Services, Study/Activity Spaces

and Youth Learning Center
We require 2,000 square feet on the first floor for these adjacent
spaces. The spaces will enable children to read, learn, and play in an
educational, constructive, pleasant environment. Daylighting will be
present in this section of the library, but staff will also be able to adjust
electric window shades. The Childrens Activity Space will be designed
for storytime activities and class visits.
9

Reading programs, featured guests and Storytellers, small musical

performances or acoustic sets, puppet shows, show and tell, and
childrens small theatrical productions can be featured in Activity Room
which includes a small platform/stage [approx. 2H x 12W] in a natural
birch wood finish and equipped with safety outlets behind the stage. To
manage the acoustics in these general areas [and throughout the
building] a sound management system will be installed to control
sound levels in all areas.

A glass wall system will be used

minimally in these spaces for safety,
and not placed in the open
communal/play areas. Mobile dividing
walls will be used to divide spaces
and/or display artwork. A shelf-rail
System will also display childrens
artwork or featured books.

The rows between the childrens

collection stacks load will be between 3 and 6 and approximately 4
between the end-caps at main aisles. Picture books and easy readers
will be
shelved at a lower height of 42 with 12
nominal shelf depth for picture books
and 10 depth for easy readers. Picture
book displays would allow staff to
show book covers.

Shelving for this space would be

constructed of wood with a resilient
natural birch finish for easy cleaning.
End-caps can be finished with
graphics. The shelving for Juvenile Fiction and
Non-Fiction can be at 66 height of the same material in cantileverstyle. The goal for shelving childrens volume types would be 20
volumes per linear foot of shelf for biographies, easy readers, picture
books, and foreign language; juvenile fiction/non-fiction at 13 volumes
per linear foot; juvenile biography, juvenile Spanish fiction and nonfiction and paperbacks at 16 volumes per linear foot.

Adult and teen shelving will be similar, but 72 high. For adult
collections, a standard metric is approximately twelve volumes per
linear foot. Therefore, to house an eventual print collection of 97,032
items, we require approximately 8,086 feet of shelf space, resultant in

10

about 540 3-foot ranges of five shelves apiece.

(https://libraryarchitecture.wikispaces.com/Shelving, 2014)

A usable metric for housing audiovisual resources is 30 items per linear

foot of shelf space To house an eventual collection of 19,836
audiovisual resources, therefore, we require an additional 45 3-foot
ranges of five shelves apiece.

Aisles between shelves should be at least 48 wide to comply with ADA

accessibility standards. In high traffic areas, aisles must be wide
enough to allow two wheelchairs to pass at the same time. All shelving
should be at least 8-10 deep, double-sided and cantilevered in
design, and media specific.

11

Proposed Floor Plans

Based on user needs and incorporation of flexibility in the
programming, assignable adjacencies our team proposes the following
floor plans.

First Floor

12

Second Floor

13

Lower Level

14

Comparison Charts
Total Area:

Buil
ding
Area

Total
Ft2:

Lowe
r
Level
:

1rst.
Floor
:

2nd.
Floor
:

Berwyn Public
Library
Current
Building
Size
Per square ft.

New Berwyn
Public Library
Team Proposed
Size:
Per square ft.

Total
Incre
ase
Amou
nt:
Per
square
ft.

32,245

42,000

*+9,7
55

10,293.5

14,000

+3,70
6.5

10,293.5

14,000

+3,70
6.5

11,658

14,000

+2,34
2

Information listed under the current building size was obtained from
the Berwyn Public Library Renovation Plans.

Collections:

According to Library Technology, the Berwyn Public Library is affiliated

with the library system that serves the township, and the collection of
the library contains 160,000 volumes. The library circulates 394,908
items annually. In addition, the library serves a population of 57,000
residents (Library Technology.org, 2014).

15

Colle
ction

Curre
nt
Collec
tion
Size

Proposed
Collection
Size:

Total Increase
Amount:

Adult
Print

88,211

97,032

8,821

Adult
nonPrint

18,033

19,836

1,803

Childr
en
Print

44,044

45,448

4,404

Childr
en
nonPrint

7,040

7,144

704

Spani
sh Adult

1,808

1,988

180

Spani
sh Juveni
le

2,783

2,961

278

Total

161,9
19

174,409
(10%
growth)

16,190

New Architectural Design

Architecturally, this new Berwyn Public Library building is a modern,
sleek, glass structure. It utilizes natural light very effectively and
provides an architectural landmark in Berwyn. It is a distinct departure
from the previous building, which was never conceived asnor meant
to bea library. Due to fiscal restrictions and failed referendums, BPL
retrofitted the building for library use and took up residence in the late
1990s.

16

The new Berwyn Public Library will be

a purpose-built, cutting edge,
environmentally responsible, efficient,
flexible, and forward-looking structure.
The intention of the building is to
remain relevant now and adaptable
for the future.

The design is inspired by a pair of

1
other buildings: the new Central
Library (1) in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and
the 2007 addition to the Newhouse
School (2) Newhouse 3at Syracuse
University. Both buildings use glass to
great effect, placing a premium on
natural light and the comfort of
patrons. While Newhouse 3 is not a
libraryit is actually a lecture hall,
study center, faculty office building,
and student unionit exhibits many of the same characteristics that
now drive library design.

Both buildings focus on the needs of the patron (or user) and create
details and spaces to fulfill those needs. Both buildings offer a variety
of spaces, of seating (both soft and task), and of atmospheres. See
suggested floor plans starting on page 13 for more details regarding
the design of the library.

Design Considerations
We propose integrated use of sustainable technologies in the library
spaces factoring flexibility and adaptability to future needs. This could
be made possible by incorporating IT structures and infrastructures
that allow spaces to be networked, reconfigured or modified as
necessary, and that supports user productivity in workspaces (based
on the Whole Building Design Guide, 2014). The following technological
recommendations include the installation of user-based technical and
electronic systems that can be accessed, controlled, and adjusted by
staff rather than contractors (WBDG, 2014). Task lighting in spaces can
also be monitored via staffs computer, and the library building will
support WIFI wireless technology ranging throughout all floor levels,
with capacity to reach an external range surrounding BPL.

The teams new BPL building plans to utilize open controls protocols
that allow networking the HVAC, fire alarm, lighting, and electrical

17

power for an ideal cost-effective initiative that would help to improve

the buildings efficiency (source of info: WBDG, 2014). In order to
determine the kind of technologies to install during our space planning
phase, an assessment of each service area and programmable space,
including activities, functional needs, and space occupancy will need to
be determined in order to meet our technological goals. We
recommend that the following sustainability codes be applied:
International Building Code, International Energy Conservation Code,
International Green Construction Code, and Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED).

Adjacencies
The library will program on three floorslower level, the first floor and
the second floorwith active services and spaces on all levels. The
first and second floor will hold circulating collections and the lower
level will be a community creative learning space.

First Floor Spaces

Community Room
Computer Center
Tech Training
Caf
Circulation
Materials Handling
Access Services
Maintenance
Childrens Collections
Childrens Early Learning Center
Childrens Story/Activity Room
Youth Services
DVD Kiosk

Lower Level
Creative Community Center (CCC)
Friends of the Library
Teen Zone and Teen Collections
Storage

Second Floor Spaces

Adult Services and Collections
Quiet Reading Area
Media Center
Administration and Conference Room

18

The following adjacency diagrams (pp. 12-14) represent our

requirements for the library.

19

20

21

22

23

24

Summary of Spaces
This portion of the document lists each space required, along with
square footage. Subsequent tables pertain to the second floor and
lower level. Total required area is defined, both in assignable and
unassignable areas. For Room Data Sheets, turn to page.

1st
Floor

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

2.1

2.2

2.3

3.1

Space

SF

Grand Entrance

300

Concierge

50

1,10
0

Cafe Kiosk

150

Restrooms

USF

Computer Center

1,00
0

Technology Training Room

500

IT Office

150

Story Room / Activity Room

500

3.2

Early Learning Center

400

3.3

Childrens Collections

3,30
0

3.4

600

3.5

Help Desk

150

4.1

Youth Workroom

600

4.2

Youth Storage

100

4.3

5.1

Community Room (dividable)

Youth Services

DVD Kiosk

Staff Room and Lockers

25

75
600

5.2

Restrooms

USF

5.3

Circulation

500

5.4

Materials Handling

750

5.5

Access Services

750

5.6

Maintenance

500

1st
Floor
Assig
nable

11,
625

2nd
Floor

6.1

6.2

6.3

6.4

6.7

Space

SF

Restrooms

USF

Adult Service Desk

200

Adult Collections

5,5
00

Quiet Reading Area

600

Quiet Study Rooms

800

6.8

Media Center

800

6.9

Study Nooks

600

7.1

Adult Workroom

800

7.2

Conference Room

400

7.3

Administration

800

2nd
Floor
Assig

10,
50
0

26

nable

Lower
Level

8.1

8.2

8.3

9.1

9.2

9.3

9.4

10.1

Lower
Level
Assig
nable

SF

Teen Zone

1,0
00

Teen Study Rooms

400

Teen collections

850

Creative Community Center (CCC)

2,0
00

Professional Demo Kitchen

500

1,0
00

Restrooms

USF

Storage (and future growth)

4,0
00

9,7
50

Assignable Square Feet

31,
87
5

Unassignable Square Feet (26% of

Total)

10,
12
5

42,
00
0

Friends of the Library

Space

Total Square Feet

Interior Design
The interior design is centered on the presence of natural light. The
building is primarily glass, with a stairway and elevator accessing the
second floor and lower level from the first floor.
27

Materials inside are naturally finished in durable, easily cleanable

finishes. Service desks are sleek and modern, and walls are covered
with crisp white no-emission paints, which serve to reflect the natural
light already poring into the building. Spaces flow smoothly into one
another and wayfinding is clearly visible, both through signage and
through changes in furniture, materials, and noise level.

Sightlines and Wayfinding

Whenever possible, sightlines should be clear. Staff should be able to
view as much of the surrounding area as possible. Wayfinding requires
ADA- and AASL-compliant signage, clear directions, and consistency in
format, color, height, font, and material. Follow ADA and AASL
standards. Exterior signage should be consistent in font and made of a
durable, weatherproof material.

28

Selected Room Data Sheets

The documents in this section identify the requirements for a variety of
public spaces. While not a complete listing of the spaces in the new
Berwyn Public Library, these pages reflect the requirements for several
commonly used public spaces. See the summary of spaces on page 11
for a complete listing of all library spaces. This document focuses on
public spaces in a new Berwyn Public Library.

1.1

Grand Entrance

Size:

300 SF

The Grand Entrance is the single point of control for public access and
exiting and should be positioned in coordination with the materials
theft system. The entrance should be welcoming and large enough for
visitors to orient themselves to the space.

The floor should be a hard surface and inset floor grates or floor mats
should be considered for the entrance to facilitate dirt removal as
people enter the building.

The entrance needs a covered area to protect visitors from the

elements as they enter and exit the building.

Occupancy:

20 100

Adjacencies:

Proximity to:

1.2 Concierge
1.3 Community Room
1.4 Caf Kiosk
1.5 Public Restrooms
Stairs & Elevator
1.2 Concierge

Sight line between: 1.2 Concierge and 3.5 Help Desk

Acoustics:
Conversations generated by incoming and outgoing
visitors need to be buffered so that noise does not bleed into the
Librarys public spaces. Use of acoustical ceiling tiles or other
dampening materials should be considered.

Flooring: Avoid floor surfaces that generate loud noise and harsh
acoustical reverberation. Consider nora rubber flooring

29

Lighting: General lighting levels of 15 to 20 foot-candles required.

Technology:
Material theft detection devices will be installed at
the security point at the interior edge of the lobby at the
entrance.

1.2

Concierge Desk

Size:

150 SF

The concierge desk serves as an information point for library patrons

after entering the library via the grand entrance. It is staffed and
provides directional information, hours of operation information, and
connects patrons with other departments and collections in the library.
It is centrally located in the lobby and adjacent to the stairs and
elevator, the childrens collection, multiple self-check stations, the help
desk, the technology center, and the community room on the first floor.

Occupancy:

1 staff person.

Proximity to:

1.1 Grand Entrance

1.3 Caf Kiosk
1.5 Public Restrooms
Stairs and Elevator

Sightline Between: Stairs and elevator

1.1 Grand Entrance

1.3 Caf Kiosk

3.3 Childrens Collections

Seating/
Furnishings:
1 podium, approximately 48 tall, with an
appropriately heighted task chair.

Adjacencies:

1.3 Community Room

1.4 Caf Kiosk
1.5 Public Restrooms
Stairs and Elevator

30

Acoustics:

See grand entrance room data sheet.

Flooring:

See grand entrance room data sheet.

Lighting: 1 LED or CFL desk lamp. For overhead lighting, see Grand
Entrance Room Data Sheet.

Technology:
A concierge podium wired for voice and data, with a
telephone. One staff workstation for quick information
retrieval.
1.3 Community Room(s)

Size:

1,100 SF

This space will be the librarys primary room for events and needs to
be designed to support a wide variety of activities. Some programs will
attract large groups and others will appeal to smaller groups of 25 - 50.
The space must be dividable into two spaces using movable wall
partitions with acoustical panels. Wall partitions should be configured
to split the space into two areas, one larger and one smaller area. Both
spaces need to be accessible directly from the Public Entrance/Lobby,
each with separate lighting and AV projection controls. When the entire
space is used, it needs to accommodate an audience of up to 100
adults seated in stacking chairs arranged in auditorium style.

The space needs to provide good line of sight for all program attendees
with no columns or other obstructions that would limit visibility.

Carpet tile flooring is recommended.

Occupancy:

100

Seating/
Furnishings:

100 stacking chairs

Adjacencies:
1.1 Public Entrance/Lobby
1.4 Caf Kiosk
1.5 Public Restrooms

Acoustics:
This space will be used for programs, lectures, music
performances and other public events. It needs to be designed

31

and finished to promote excellent acoustical conditions

throughout the space.

Lighting: Provide a minimum 30 40 foot candles average with all

lights on and with separately controlled lighting and spotlighting
for the front of the room. Lighting should be dimmable to
produce approximately 2 foot-candles for note taking during
presentations. The note-taking lights should not spill into the
projection screen.

Technology:
WiFi access required. Must be equipped with
adjustable lighting levels, video projector, projection screen and
assistive listening device capability. Wired and cabled to support
a variety of audiovisual activities, including cable TV reception,
distance learning events, video programming and interactive
demonstrations of web resources. Provide standard, wallmounted communications and power outlets along each
perimeter wall as well as recessed, flush floor-mounted
communications and power outlets, spaced to support the
rooms intended uses and occupancy levels.

32

3.3

Childrens Storytime and Activity Space

Size:

950 SF

This communal, open Childrens space is designed for storytime

activities and class visits. Reading programs, featured guests,
storytellers, small musical performances, puppet shows, show and tell,
and small childrens theatrical productions can be featured in this
space.

The space includes a childrens play and activity area. Walls

surrounding the storytime stage should be dividable and acoustically
soundproofed. A shelf-rail system for displaying childrens artwork or
featured books is incorporated into the space. The storytime stage
should be a low, wooden platform equipped with electrical outlets
(covered for safety) and adjustable lighting.

Carpet tile flooring is recommended.

Occupancy:

50

Seating/
Furnishings:
Stackable plastic chairs for 20. Cloth and steel frame
back jack chairs (see Appendix I) for 30. Storage solutions for
back jacks and wall space for stackable chairs must be included.
Animal-themed child-height (29) activity tables with appropriate
seating options. Shelving for ~52,000 items.

Sightlines/
Proximity: 3.11

Acoustics:
Ensure effective acoustic separation from external
Childrens space areas and building.

Lighting: Proven efficiency, natural daylight. Recessed paneled

lighting and spotlights surrounding ceilings along the walls.

Technology:
Audible building sound speakers. Install electrical
outlets above 6ft. on walls with safety covers. Complies with UL
Electrical Standards.

33

6.3

Adult Collections

Size:

5,500 SF

This will be a well-defined space with effective, ADA- and AASLcompliant signage. Shelving for ~100,000 print items (books,
magazines, and newspapers). Shelving for books will be 72 tall,
cantilevered, and at least 10 deep. Shelving for magazines and
newspapers will be 48 tall, double-sided, and slanted with storage
space underneath for recent back issues. Each range will have simple
end panels in an ecologically responsible and affordable material.

Recycled rubber flooring is recommended; consider nora rubber

flooring.

Occupancy:

0-50

Seating/
Furnishings:
A mixture of soft and task furniture for at least 20
people in various locations. Task furniture should accommodate at least
4 people and be rectangular or square in shape. Soft seating should be
easily cleaned and moved. Low coffee tables will accompany soft
seating.

Sightlines/
Proximity: Stairs and Elevator
Service Desk
Quiet Reading Area
Lighting: Up-lighting bar-type fixtures with light-emitting diode (LED)
or compact fluorescent (CFL) bar-type fixtures over collection
areas. Daylighting will be utilized whenever possible and
particularly on the east side of the building LED or CFL table

34

lamps at study tables. LED or CFL pendant-type fixtures over

service points.

Surfaces: Walls should be covered with low- or no-emission paints in

light colors to maximize the reflectivity of natural light and the
efficiency of lighting systems.

35

8.1

Teen Zone and Teen Collections

Size: 1,000 SF

This purpose-designed space for teens will include Task and

collaborative furniture for 30 people. Shelving for small A/V collection
and print collections of approximately 200-250 items each. Sound
absorptive carpet, wall construction, and ceiling construction. An
independent service desk will serve the Teen Zone; the Teen Zone will
be open only when it is staffed. A glass wall should enclose the Teen
Zone; the glass wall should be emblazoned with a design.

Sightlines/
Proximity:
Stairs and Elevator

Teen Service Desk

Restrooms

Technology:
Wifi access and wiring/cabling for 6 27 iMac Apple
computers equipped with video editing software. 1 50 flatscreen high-definition television, wall-mounted, for video gaming,
movie screenings, and watch parties for some sports events,
concerts, etc. (this requires a library subscription to a cable
provider). One Xbox 360 console with Kinect, 1 Wii U console,
and 5-10 games per console will serve as a gaming center. One
collaborative table with network technology, 2 flat-panel
displays, and video conferencing/Skype capability will allow
collaboration on projects.

Seating/
Furnishings:
Soft seating will be a mix of couches, poufs,
armchairs, and upholstered booths. Collaborative tables and task
tables will be wired with AC outlets.

Computer workstations will be ergonomically designed and

partitioned by low, opaque walls. All soft seating and work chairs
will be moveable and preferably on wheels. Other furniture (task
tables, collaborative tables) will be stationary.

36

Lighting: LED or CFL pendant-style light fixtures in interesting

shapes will be used over seating areas. Floor lamps will also be
used.

Surfaces: Walls should be covered with low- or no-emission paints in

bright colors. The Floors and ceilings should help differentiate the
space from other areas on the second floor and highlight space for the
targeted demographic.

37

Resource List

ADA and Libraries (2014). Retrieved from http://www.ala.org/tools/adaand-libraries

https://harvester.census.gov/imls/search/Library_Detail.asp?
ID=IL0046&ThisType=LS&LibraryName=berwyn%20Public
%20Library&LibraryID=&Address=&City=&State=IL&Zip=&Distance=
&County=&PhoneAreaCode=&Phone=&ResultSetNumber=1&LibTypes
=LS%2CCE%2CBR%2CBS%2CBM&StateSelectedIndex=14&procqstr=1

http://www.berwynlibrary.org/sites/default/files/BPL_History.pdf

http://www.berwynista.com/tag/berwyn-historic-preservationcommission/

http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/2014/11/22/montoya-the-economicfuture-looks-bright-in-berwyn/atpn2zn/

http://www.ala.org/tools/ada-and-libraries

International Code Council ICC. (2014). Retrieved from

http://www.iccsafe.org/iccforums/Pages/default.aspx?
action=ViewTopics&fid=8

Lervolino, L. (1997). Interplan Practice Uses Extensive Rehab

Experience to Convert an Office Building into the New Berwyn Public
Library. Inland Architect. Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail/detail?vid=3&sid=e9b677648f89-417e-8e88-5a91

Library.org (2014). A directory of libraries throughout the world.

Retrieved from http://librarytechnology.org/libraries/library.pl?id=7814

Pech, E. (2008). History of the Berwyn Public Library. Retrieved from

http://www.berwynlibrary.org/library-histo

Schlipf, F. (2011). The Dark Side of Library Architecture: The

Persistence of Dysfunctional Designs. Library Trends. Retrieved from
http://www.iccsafe.org/iccforums/Pages/default.aspx?
action=ViewTopics&fid=8

38

Shelving. (2014). Celsus: A Library Architecture Resource. Retrieved

from https://libraryarchitecture.wikispaces.com/Shelving

Siems, E. and Demmers, L. (2014). Library Stacks and Shelving. Libris

Design Project. Retrieved from
http://www.librisdesign.org/docs/ShelvingforLibraries.pdf

Stewart, C. (2014). Defining types of library space. PowerPoint

presentation.

United States Census Bureau. (2014, Dec 4). Berwyn (city), IIllinois.
Retrieved from
http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/17/1705573.html

WBDG Productive Committee. (2014). Design for the Changing

Workplace. Whole Building Design Guide. Retrieved from
http://www.wbdg.org/design/design_change.php

39

Appendix I: Furniture Recommendations

Childrens Furniture

Back jack chairs are inexpensive, easy to

clean, and compact for storage. Use for
storytime or other childrens programming.

A storyteller
Attendees are
wooden platform
jacks.

utilizes a storytime stage.

arranged around the low
on soft seating or back

A book display that doubles as a reading

nook. Displays books on both sides.
www.openingthebook.com

Animal-themed task tables provide surfaces near the storytime room.

40

Service Points
We recommend using Demcos TechnoLink line of modular service
desks, found at http://www.demcointeriors.com/images/pdf/productstechnolink/technolink_brochure_8pg.pdf. The line is sleek and modern,
and fits the aesthetic for the new building well. Additionally, the desks
can be arranged as staff requires.

Soft Seating and Task Seating

In terms of soft seating,

Steelcases Jenny round chair
offers comfort and easy mobility.

Steelcases Wing chair would

work well in the Quiet Reading
Area.

41

And Steelcases Passarelle sofa

offers an inviting seat, too.

For task seating, we recommend

simple chairs like Agati Furnitures
White line of furniture. The
simplicity of the design will
complement the new library well;
chairs like this work well in many
locations.

The Jet chair would also work

well and is stackable.

Shelving

42

Agatis Primary collection offers

a variety of table and chair
combinations and carries through
the right lines and design
sensibilities for our library.


Demcos TotaLibra steel shelving
system offers the flexibility of design
and multipurpose flexibility that we
desire in a shelving solution.

Appendix II: Lighting Recommendations

Quiet Reading/Seating Areas

Steelcases Campfire lamp would work

well in the quiet reading area as well as
other seating areas.

We also suggest Steelcases Soto LED collection for

a task lighting solution.

Kichlers Drum pendant light fixture works well for

overhead lighting in seating and traffic areas.

43

We suggest the Vertex M5 light bar by Litecontrol for over-stack

lighting.

44