HomeMy WebLinkAbout02.01.17 LC PacketCity of Boulder
2017 Library Commission Agenda
Meeting date: Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017
Location: Main Library, 1001 Arapahoe Ave., Canyon Meeting Room
Meeting start time: 6 p.m. (Note: There is no access to the building after 8 p.m.)
1.Approval of agenda
2.Public comment
3.Consent agenda
a.Approval of Jan. 4, 2017 minutes (p. 2-4)
4.Meet Kate Kelsch, BPL volunteer services coordinator (p. 5)
5.Main Library north building assessment updates – Michele Crane, facilities design and construction manager,
Facilities and Asset Management division of Public Works (p. 6-18)
6.All-gender restroom plan – Michele Crane (p. 19-22)
7.Library Master Plan project update (p. 23-43)
8.Approve updates to Library Commission Handbook (p. 44)
9.Library policy review (p. 45-48)
a.Proposed schedule for reviewing policies in 2017
b.Materials Donations Guidelines review and approval
10.Library Commission update (p. 49-50)
a.Items from commission
i.Report out on meetings with City Council members
ii.Report out on CAL CATS Winter Workshop
iii.Financial impact of Boulder as a sanctuary city
b.Boulder Library Foundation update
c.City project representative update
i.Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan
ii.Boulder’s Civic Area
iii.Canyon Complete Streets
iv.EcoDistricts
d.Responses to patron emails from the Library Commission
11.Library and Arts Director’s Report (p. 51-53)
a.2016 door count
b.Current issues around transient population
c.Boulder Historical Society & Carnegie Library
d.Report out on City Council retreat
e.Applications for boards and commissions
f.Some good news, some sad news
12.Adjournment
2017 Library Commissioners
Joni Teter, Chair Alicia Gibb Tim O’Shea Juana Gomez Joel Koenig
1
CITY OF BOULDER
BOULDER, COLORADO
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS MEETING
MINUTES
Name of Board/ Commission: Library Commission
Date of Meeting: Jan. 4, 2017 at the Main Boulder Public Library, 1001 Arapahoe Ave.
Contact information preparing summary: Maureen Malone, 303-441-3106
Commission members present: Joni Teter, Alicia Gibb, Juana Gomez, Joel Koenig, Tim O’Shea
Library staff present:
David Farnan, Director of Library & Arts
Jennifer Phares, Deputy Library Director
Maureen Malone, Administrative Specialist II
Members of the public present:
Andy Sayler
Type of Meeting: Regular
Agenda Item 1: Call to order and approval of agenda [6:00 p.m., 0:00:00 Audio min.]
The meeting was called to order at 6 p.m.
Agenda Item 2: Public comment [6:01 p.m., 0:00:15 Audio min.]
None
Agenda Item 3: Consent agenda [6:02 p.m., 0:00:21 Audio min.]
Item 3A, Approval of Nov. 17, 2016 Joint Meeting with Landmarks Board
Gomez suggested an addition stating that there was agreement that neither library nor landmarks will surprise each other
with a sudden decision to demolish or landmark the north building. Vote was 3-0 in favor of approval (Gibb and O’Shea
abstained as they did not attend the joint meeting).
Item 3B, Approval of Dec. 7, 2016 Meeting Minutes
Gibb moved to approve the minutes, and O’Shea seconded. Vote 4-0, unanimous (Teter abstained as she was not at the
meeting).
Agenda Item 4: Updates to Library Commission Handbook [6:03 p.m., 0:02:05 Audio min.]
Teter emailed her comments prior to the meeting (see handouts).
Commission discussion, questions, and comments included:
Gibb asked Koenig and Gomez for their feedback on the handbook since they were both onboarded with this
version when they joined the commission.
o Gomez asked for clarification on the distinction between ‘commissioner’ and ‘trustee.’ Teter explained
that the Library Commission serves as an advisory board to City Council and the library, whereas a
board of trustees is a governing board. Staff agreed to draft a note to include in the commissioner job
description clarifying the difference between an advisory commission and a governing board.
o Gomez asked whether commissioners are meant to represent a specific constituency. Farnan stated that
the intent is that as a whole, commission represents the general public of Boulder. O’Shea cited the
commissioner job description: “The Library Commission is the voice of the public in library affairs, and
commissioners serve to represent the public interest to the best of their abilities.”
Gomez asked whether proxy votes are allowed on city boards and commissions. Farnan stated that staff would
check with the City Attorney’s Office [6:37 p.m., 0:36:36 Audio min.].
Gomez pointed out that the Library and Arts Department Overview mentions all the branch libraries under Public
Services, but does not call out the Main Library anywhere. Phares replied that staff can update the document to
clarify that services from all divisions are offered at the Main Library, and the management of the branches falls
under the Public Services division [6:59 p.m., 0:58:45 Audio min.].
2
Agenda Item 5: Discuss plan to review library rules and policies [6:15 p.m., 0:14:57 Audio min.]
Commission discussion, questions, and comments included:
Gibb asked where the 3D printing policy is located on the website. Phares explained that the policy was not
implemented because it was originally developed for the Teen Space, which was never made open to the general
public. Gibb asked whether a 3D printing policy is needed for BLDG 61. Farnan replied that his main concern
would be copyright, and stated that the library upholds the laws of copyright in other policies. Gibb commented
that Congress is still trying to determine whether 3D printing is copyrightable or patentable, and therefore she
would feel more comfortable not asserting one of those about 3D printing at this time.
Gibb suggested that staff consult the most recent America Library Association (ALA) resources when updating
the Internet Access Policy.
Koenig asked what the current Holds Policy is. Farnan replied that holds are currently limited to 10 items at one
time, and explained that staff plans to increase the holds limit once they fully understand the impact; hold requests
that don’t get picked up are one of the most expensive things the library does. Koenig asked how increasing the
holds limit would impact the library’s acquisition of books. Farnan responded that it could give staff better insight
into what patrons want, and would be a good indicator to purchase more copies of certain books. Gomez asked if
staff would consider putting patrons that habitually don’t pick up hold items on probation. Farnan responded that
the holds are manageable at this point, and Teter suggested providing patrons with some education on the
costliness of holds.
Koenig stated that the donation policy is not clear about the fact that materials donated are not added to the
library’s collection. Phares explained that books not selected for the library’s bookstore are picked up by Eco-
Cycle to be sold on eBay to offset the cost of pickup, donated to thrift stores or schools, or recycled as a last
resort. Phares will work with the new volunteer services coordinator to clarify the donations guidelines for the
February meeting.
O’Shea pointed out that the website incorrectly directs patrons to take donations to the information desk.
O’Shea suggested adding strategic language in support of gender neutr al restrooms on the website. Teter said it
might be worth looking to see what language is out there being used by other organizations. Koenig recommended
waiting until the plans for the gender neutral restrooms are finalized.
Farnan explained that funds generated by the bookstore currently go back in to the general fund, and Phares added
that for the past several years, the library has requested these funds in the second adjustment to base and used the
money for collection purposes. Farnan stated that staff would like to figure out a way to also use the funds to
recognize library volunteers. Teter suggested that the commission could make a request that proceeds from any
book sales go in to the library fund.
Agenda Item 6: Library Commission Update [6:38 p.m., 0:37:56 Audio min.]
a.Matters from the Commission
i.Report out on meetings with City Council members
b.Boulder Library Foundation update
There was no foundation meeting in December.
c.City project representative update
i.Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan
ii.Boulder’s Civic Area
iii.Canyon Complete Streets
iv.EcoDistricts
d.Responses to patron emails from the Library Commission
Agenda Item 7: Library and Arts Director’s Report [6:41 p.m., 0:41:03 Audio min.]
a.Master Plan Project update
b.1000 Books Before Kindergarten
c.Report out on December 2016 Community Dialogue
3
Teter asked staff for feedback on the table that the city Planning Department set up in Seeds Café to solicit information on
the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan. Farnan replied that Seeds Café is not an ideal location for this kind of activity
because it imposes upon the customers, and added that the Canyon Gallery is better suited as a programmable space.
Agenda Item 8: Adjournment [7:03 p.m., 1:02:15 Audio min.]
There being no further business to come before the commission at this time, the meeting was adjourned at 7:03 p.m.
Date, time, and location of next meeting:
The next Library Commission meeting will be at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017, in the Canyon Meeting Room at the
Main Library, 1001 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, CO 80302.
4
To: Boulder Public Library Commission
From: David Farnan, Library and Arts Director
Jennifer Phares, Deputy Library Director
Date: January 27, 2017
Subject: Meet Kate Kelsch, Library Volunteer Services Coordinator
The Library Commission will have the opportunity to meet with Kate Kelsch, volunteer services
coordinator for the Library and Arts Department. Kate joined the library team in November 2016. She
will share some highlights of what she is working on to improve the volunteer program.
5
To: Boulder Public Library Commission
From: Michele Crane, Design and Construction Manager, Facilities and Asset Management division of
Public Works
David Farnan, Library and Arts Director
Jennifer Phares, Deputy Library Director
Date: January 27, 2017
Subject: Main Library north building assessment update
Background:
At the Nov. 14, 2016 Library Commission study session, the commissioners discussed with staff planning next
steps for the Main Library north building considering the historic survey that was completed in 2016. See Oct.
5, 2016 Library Commission meeting packet, pg. 17 for the study https://boulderlibrary.org/wp-
content/uploads/2014/12/10-05-2016-LC-Meeting-Packet.pdf .
Information about the most recent valuation of the north building and the renovation design concept studies
that were completed by consultant Rick Epstein for Boulder’s Civic Area planning were requested. This
information will inform a feasibility study for renovation of the north building to accommodate current uses,
and an estimated budget for a phased renovation. The estimated maintenance cost to preserve the building’s
façade if the building were to receive landmark status was also requested. The commission also requested
that staff submit a 2018 budget request to conduct the feasibility study.
North building valuation and design concept studies:
City of Boulder division of Facilities and Asset Management (FAM) engaged the city’s property insurance
agent to conduct a new assessment of the Main Library (84,750 s.f.) including the north building. The
city’s current property schedule does not split the Main Library into individual buildings. The last
appraisal was conducted in 2003 and the Main Library was valued at $17 million which includes the 1994
addition’s basement level. A preliminary, computer-generated property valuation was recently
conducted and the value was determined to be $11 million. A full appraisal was conducted Jan. 25,
2017. The assessment report is expected within the month.
Extrapolating from this preliminary total value of the Main Library, the current replacement value of the
north building is estimated to be between $3.1 million and $4.9 million. Any improvements would also
include flood and energy upgrade requirements. The north building’s first level is 17,500 s.f. and 7,150
s.f. on the second level for a total of 24,650 s.f.
On Jan. 24, 2017, staff met with Rick Epstein to review the design concept studies that he completed for
Boulder’s Civic Area Master Plan. The options included basic interior renovations to options for building
expansion and exterior modifications. The option for the basic interior renovation has been updated to
reflect current uses and will be used as the basis for the feasibility study. The design concept drawings
are included in a presentation that Epstein will give the commission at the Feb. 1, 2017 meeting
(Attachment A). Epstein will provide a cost estimate for the feasibility study within the month.
FAM is working on the estimated maintenance cost to preserve the building’s façade.
Question for the Library Commission:
Does the Library Commission have any input or questions about this information?
6
BOULDER CIVIC AREA NORTH LIBRARY
OPTIONS FOR REDEVELOPMENT
January 25, 2017
re:architecture 7
Library North Existing Building
Issues
•Awkward theater shape
•Confusing layout
•Ramp in building constrains space
•Little connection to Canyon or Creek
•Very closed building elevations
•Approx. 22,500 sf
January 25, 2017 re:architecture8
Library North Existing Building
First Floor Plan
ENTRY!
January 25, 2017 re:architecture9
Library North Existing Building
Second Floor Plan
ENTRY!
January 25, 2017 re:architecture10
Library North Commons Concepts
GENERAL
• Minimum changes required to meet code in Option 1 and improve
performance space
• Flat Floor “flex” vs fixed seating with sloped floor provides more flexibility
(Event Pavilion vs. Formal Theater)
• Raise floor of entry to minimize ramps/connect to courtyards
• Engage Canyon Blvd – Stronger connection/frontage, open up buildings with
windows
• Engage Creek – Stronger connection
• Enliven courtyards and connect to park
• Bring public uses to greater prominence
STRUCTURAL
• There is significant structural capacity on the building
• Columns can be removed from the space as indicated. A larger replacement
girder or truss would be required for longer spans.
January 25, 2017 re:architecture11
Library North Precedents
Theaters with Telescoping Seating and Flat Floors
Flat Open
January 25, 2017 re:architecture12
Library North Phase 1
FEATURES
•Raise entry level by 2’ - eliminate ramps
•Expand existing auditorium to 60’ wide, flat floor
(consider not expanding width to minimize structural cost)
•Eliminate columns at stage
•Telescoping Seats on west side facing east, flexible stage
•Open wall/stage to lobby
•Occupy upper storage spaces as offices or conference
•New windows on second floor north and south
•Move Entry to north courtyard
•New larger HC accessible restrooms to south of auditorium
January 25, 2017 re:architecture13
Library North Phase 1
First Floor Plan
ENTRY!
January 25, 2017 re:architecture14
Library North Phase 1
Second Floor Plan January 25, 2017 re:architecture15
Library North Phase 2
FEATURES
Same as Option 1 with the following:
•Channel 8 assumed to move
•Library offices reduced to upstairs or removed
•New Auditorium support in NW corner
•SBDC and Boulder Reads with more visibility to north
•New café with terrace facing the creek
•Consider balcony or open volume for theater on 2nd level
January 25, 2017 re:architecture16
Library North Phase 2
First Floor Plan
BRIDGE TO
MAIN LIBRARY!
ENTRY!
January 25, 2017 re:architecture17
Library North Phase 2
Second Floor Plan January 25, 2017 re:architecture18
To: Boulder Public Library Commission
From: Michele Crane, Design and Construction Manager, Facilities and Asset Management division of
Public Works
David Farnan, Library and Arts Director
Jennifer Phares, Deputy Library Director
Date: January 27, 2017
Subject: Update on all-gender restroom plan for the Main Library
Background: During the past year, library staff have been working with staff from the city’s Facilities
Asset Management division of Public Works to research options to include all-gender restroom facilities
into the renovation of four public restrooms in the Main Library. The goal of this research is to develop
preliminary design options to obtain a cost estimate and submit this project to the city’s 2017 Capital
Improvement Program for possible funding in 2018.
Previous updates on this topic are included in the following meeting packets and minutes:
Feb. 10, 2016 Library Director’s report – meeting packet pg. 31
https://boulderlibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/02-10-2016-LC-packet.pdf
April 6, 2016 Library Director’s report – meeting packet pg. 142
https://boulderlibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/April-6-2016-LC-Meeting-Packet.pdf
Nov. 2, 2016 Library Director’s report – meeting packet pg. 210
https://boulderlibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/11-2-2016-LC-Meeting-Packet-2.pdf
Please also refer to the meeting minutes for details on the discussion at the meetings listed above
https://boulderlibrary.org/about/commission/archive/ .
Preliminary design options:
The staff project team received two design options from studiotrope Design Collective on Jan. 24, 2017
(Attachments A-C.) The designs were developed to provide restroom facilities to accommodate use by
individuals of any gender, caregiver-child or caregiver- adult pairs. Both design options also include
normative gender restroom facilities.
Next steps:
The staff project team and studiotrope Design Collective are meeting with Mardi Moore, Out Boulder
County executive director, on Thursday, Feb. 2, 2017 to review and discuss the design options.
Studiotrope Design Collective will provide a cost estimate on the design option selected before the end
of February 2017.
Questions for the Library Commission:
1.Does the Library Commission have any input or questions on the two design options?
2.Does the Library Commission prefer one of the options?
19
593 OCC PER GENDER 1991 & 1974 BUILDINGSPLUMBING FIXTURE TYPES COMMENTSCURRENTLY PROVIDED 1991 & 1974 BUILDINGSMEN'S WC (1 per 125 O.L.)5 12
WOMEN'S WC (1 per 65 O.L.)10 12
MEN'S LAV (1 per 200 O.L.)3 12
WOMEN'S LAV (1 per 200 O.L.)3 12
DRINKING FOUNTAIN (1 per 500 O.L.)2 2
SERVICE SINK: 1 REQUIRED 1 2
FAMILY WC 0 1
FAMILY LAV 0 1
UNISEX WC 0 1
UNISEX LAV 0 1 266 OCC PER GENDER 1961 BUILDINGSCURRENTLY PROVIDED 1961 BUILDINGS2 3
5 3
2 2
2 2
1 2
1 2
0 1
0 1
0 1
0 1
Plumbing Fixtures Required per 2015 IBC
Table 2902.1
9 additional provided
0 additional provided
6 additional provided
9 additional provided
1 additional provided
2 additional provided
1 additional provided
1 additional provided
1 additional provided
1 additional providedPRIVATEEXISTING
J
9 8
A
B
1' - 0 5/8"2' - 0"2' - 1"2' - 0"2' - 1 3/8"1' - 11"4' - 3"2' - 6 3/4"2' - 6 3/4"2' - 8 5/8"1' - 1 3/4"4' - 11 3/4"1' - 6 3/4"2' - 10 1/8"2' - 8 3/4"2' - 9 1/8"2' - 9 1/8"2' - 9 5/8"CURRENT WC STALL AND LAV
CONFIGURATION DOES NOT MEET ADA 60" ADA TURNAROUND CLEARANCE
30" X 42" ADA APPROACH CLEARANCE ADA PUSH/PULL CLEARANCE
PULL
1' - 6"
PUSH
1' - 0"
ADA CLEARANCE
REQUIREMENTS
60"x 56" MIN ADA STALL CLEAR AREA
593 OCC PER GENDER 1991 & 1974 BUILDINGSPLUMBING FIXTURE TYPES COMMENTSCURRENTLY PROVIDED 1991 & 1974 BUILDINGSMEN'S WC (1 per 125 O.L.)5 6
WOMEN'S WC (1 per 65 O.L.)10 12
MEN'S LAV (1 per 200 O.L.)3 6
WOMEN'S LAV (1 per 200 O.L.)3 6
DRINKING FOUNTAIN (1 per 500 O.L.)2 4
SERVICE SINK: 1 REQUIRED 1 0
FAMILY WC 0 1
FAMILY LAV 0 1
UNISEX WC 0 1
UNISEX LAV 0 1 266 OCC PER GENDER 1961 BUILDINGSCURRENTLY PROVIDED 1961 BUILDINGS2 3
5 3
2 2
2 2
1 2
1 2
0 1
0 1
0 1
0 1
Plumbing Fixtures Required per 2015 IBC
Table 2902.1
3 additional provided
0 additional provided
3 additional provided
3 additional provided
3 additional provided
0 additional provided
1 additional provided
1 additional provided
1 additional provided
1 additional providedPRIVATEOPTION 'A'
NOTES:
1. URINALS ACCOUNT FOR NO MORE THAN 67% OF MEN'S FIXTURES
2. CODE CALCULATIONS DO NOT TAKE INTO ACCOUNT SINGLE OCCUPANCY RESTROOMS 593 OCC PER GENDER 1991 & 1974 BUILDINGSPLUMBING FIXTURE TYPES COMMENTSPROVIDED FOR OPT 'B' 1991 & 1974 BUILDINGSMEN'S WC (1 per 125 O.L.)5 6
WOMEN'S WC (1 per 65 O.L.)10 12
MEN'S LAV (1 per 200 O.L.)3 5
WOMEN'S LAV (1 per 200 O.L.)3 6
DRINKING FOUNTAIN (1 per 500 O.L.)2 4
SERVICE SINK: 1 REQUIRED 1 2
FAMILY WC 0 1
FAMILY LAV 0 1
UNISEX WC 0 1
UNISEX LAV 0 1 266 OCC PER GENDER 1961 BUILDINGSCURRENTLY PROVIDED 1961 BUILDINGS2 3
5 3
2 2
2 2
1 2
1 2
0 1
0 1
0 1
0 1
Plumbing Fixtures Required per 2015 IBC
Table 2902.1
2 additional provided
0 additional provided
1 additional provided
3 additional provided
2 additional provided
2 additional provided
1 additional provided
1 additional provided
1 additional provided
1 additional providedPRIVATEOPTION 'B'
NOTES:
1. URINALS ACCOUNT FOR NO MORE THAN 67% OF MEN'S FIXTURES
2. CODE CALCULATIONS DO NOT TAKE INTO ACCOUNT SINGLE OCCUPANCY RESTROOMS PROJECTC 2013 STUDIOTROPE, LLC
OWNER
ARCH PROJECT
PLOT LOG:1/25/2017 2:40:38 PM
G-100
Public RR Code Study
1220BPL - Restroom RenovationBoulder Public Library
1001 Arapahoe AvenueBoulder, CO 80302 1/2" = 1'-0"G-100
1 EXISTING RESTROOM PLAN
ISSUE DATE PHASE
01.24.17 SCHEMATIC DIESIGN
3
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
3
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
3
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
ATTACHMENT A.
20
J
9 8
A
B
5' - 2 1/2"
4' - 6"
5' - 0"WOMEN'S
RESTROOM
5
GENDER NEUTRAL
RESTROOM
6
ACOUSTIC SEPARATION AND FLOOR TO CEILING
WALLS BETWEEN STALLS IN GENDER NEUTRAL
RESTROOMS
4 TO 6 INCH GAP UNDER DOORS IN
GENDER NEUTRAL RESTROOMS TO
ALLOW FOR SAEFTY SITELINES AND
VENTILATION INTO THE STALLS
INCREASE MECHANICAL VENTILATION IN
EACH STALL TO PULL FRESH AIR FROM THE
MAIN RESTROOM AREA, EXITING THROUGH
CEILING MOUNTED FANS AND REDUCING
OVERALL ODOR FROM MAIN RESTROOM.
1" THICK (NORMAL)
STALL PARTIONS IN
NORMATIVE GENDER
RESTROOMS
J
9 8
A
B
5' - 2 1/2"
5' - 1"
5' - 0"5' - 0"3' - 0"5' - 0"4' - 6"4' - 6"
5' - 0"
GENDER NEUTRAL
RESTROOM
6
MEN'S RESTROOM
7
ACOUSTIC SEPARATION AND FLOOR TO
CEILING WALLS BETWEEN STALLS IN
GENDER NEUTRAL RESTROOMS
4 TO 6 INCH GAP UNDER DOORS IN
GENDER NEUTRAL RESTROOMS TO
ALLOW FOR SAEFTY SITELINES AND
VENTILATION INTO THE STALLS
INCREASE MECHANICAL VENTILATION
IN EACH STALL TO PULL FRESH AIR
FROM THE MAIN RESTROOM AREA,
EXITING THROUGH CEILING MOUNTED
FANS AND REDUCING OVERALL ODOR
FROM MAIN RESTROOM.
1" THICK (NORMAL) STALL
PARTIONS IN NORMATIVE
GENDER RESTROOMS
PROJECTC 2013 STUDIOTROPE, LLC
OWNER
ARCH PROJECT
PLOT LOG:1/25/2017 2:40:29 PM
A-101
OPTION 'A'
1220BPL - Restroom RenovationBoulder Public Library
1001 Arapahoe AvenueBoulder, CO 80302NTSA-101
FIRST FLOOR RESTROOM PLAN - OPTION 'A'1
ISSUE DATE PHASE
01.24.17 SCHEMATIC DIESIGN
NTSA-101
SECOND FLOOR RESTROOM PLAN - OPTION 'A'2
OPTION 'A'
IN OPTION 'A' A GENDER
NEUTRAL RESTROOM AND
A NORMATIVE GENDER
RESTROOM OCCUPIES
EACH LEVEL. MEN AND
WOMEN MORE
COMFORTABLE WITH THE
NORMATIVE GENDER
RESTROOMS WILL NEED TO
IDENTIFY THE LEVEL THEIR
PRESCRIPTIVE RESTROOM
IS LOCATED.
*NORMATIVE RESTROOM *GENDER NEUTRAL RESTROOM
*NORMATIVE RESTROOM *GENDER NEUTRAL RESTROOM
21
J
9 8
A
B
5' - 0"
JAN/ ELEC
1
URINALS
2
WATER CLOSETS
3
LAVATORIES
4
ACOUSTIC SEPARATION AND
FLOOR TO CEILING WALLS
BETWEEN STALLS IN GENDER
NEUTRAL RESTROOMS
4 TO 6 INCH GAP UNDER DOORS IN
GENDER NEUTRAL RESTROOMS TO
ALLOW FOR SAEFTY SITELINES AND
VENTILATION INTO THE STALLS
INCREASE MECHANICAL
VENTILATION IN EACH STALL TO
PULL FRESH AIR FROM THE MAIN
RESTROOM AREA, EXITING
THROUGH CEILING MOUNTED FANS
AND REDUCING OVERALL ODOR
FROM MAIN RESTROOM.
URINALS IN
SEPARATE ROOM TO
MAINTAIN PRIVACY
LAVATORIES IN SEMI-PUBLIC
SPACE TO DISCOURAGE
PROLONGED OR UNINTENDED
USE
J
9 8
A
B
ELEC
1
MEN'S RR
2
WOMEN'S RR
3
JANITOR
4
1" THICK (NORMAL) STALL
PARTIONS IN NORMATIVE GENDER
RESTROOMS
PROJECTC 2013 STUDIOTROPE, LLC
OWNER
ARCH PROJECT
PLOT LOG:1/25/2017 2:40:30 PM
A-102
OPTION 'B'
1220BPL - Restroom RenovationBoulder Public Library
1001 Arapahoe AvenueBoulder, CO 80302NTSA-102
FIRST FLOOR RESTROOM PLAN - OPTION 'B'1
NTSA-102
SECOND FLOOR RESTROOM PLAN - OPTION 'B'2
ISSUE DATE PHASE
01.24.17 SCHEMATIC DIESIGN
OPTION 'B'
IN OPTION 'B' A GENDER
NEUTRAL RESTROOM
OCCUPIES THE FIRST
FLOOR WHILE NORMATIVE
GENDER RESTROOMS
OCCUPY THE SECOND.
ONCE AQUAINTED WITH
THE DIFFERENCES THE
INDIVIDUAL USER CAN USE
THE RESTROOM THAT
ALIGNS WITH THEIR
COMFORT ZONE.
* NORMATIVE MEN & WOMEN'S RESTROOM
*GENDER NEUTRAL
RESTROOM
22
To: Boulder Public Library Commission
From: David Farnan, Library and Arts Director
Jennifer Phares, Deputy Library Director
Date: January 27, 2017
Subject: Library Master Plan Project Update memo
Purpose: This memo is an information item for the Library Commission so that commissioners
have sufficient time before the March 13, 2017 study session to review it. The information
provided are draft notes and not intended as a draft report. Staff will take any questions from
the commission and provide answers in the study session packet.
Staff seeks input from the Library Commission on the draft survey outline during the Feb. 1,
2017 meeting (Attachment A). The outline is a preliminary list of topics to be addressed in the
survey. The outline will be used as a basis for drafting the survey questions.
Project status:
Phase 1: Community needs assessment
Staff has reviewed several community planning documents and incorporated information from
the interviews with community leaders that Margaret Sullivan Studio completed in 2016. The
notes from this review showing community needs, goals, and priorities are organized into five
broad topics (Attachment B). The topics will be further refined as more information is collected.
Additional information related to demographic trends was also collected during this review but
is not included in the needs assessment notes. Staff is awaiting the publication of a few more
resources which are listed at the end of the document. After they become available, staff will
review them and add information to these notes. These needs assessment notes will be
summarized in the final Master Plan document.
Margaret Sullivan Studio recently completed a benchmark study with several peer library
systems. The draft results will be presented at the March study session.
Phase 2: Communications and marketing plan, community engagement activities, survey and
focus group meetings
Ascend Marketing was hired to create concise messaging which conveys the value of Boulder
Public Library to the community. The intended outcomes of this work are increased awareness
and community support for Boulder Public Library and a representative community participation
in the Boulder Public Library master planning process. Ascend will produce a PowerPoint slide
deck for use in presentations to the community about library services. The deliverables are due
during the first week of March 2017, and will be summarized for the commission at the March
study session.
Joining Vision and Action (JVA) consulting firm was hired to develop and administer an online
community survey and subsequent focus groups for several populations in the community. JVA
will collect and analyze the data from the survey and focus groups and summarize it in a final
report that will be used as a reference in the Master Plan. The survey will run from March 13,
23
2017 through April 17, 2017. The following is the schedule for presenting JVA’s work and results
to the Library Commission at their meetings:
March 1, 2017 Final draft of the survey questions will be presented for input
May 3, 2017 Draft focus group guide presented for input
June 7, 2017 Survey results will be presented for review
July 15, 2017 Focus group summary report presented for review
Other information:
Staff is reviewing a proposal from another consultant to assist with public meetings to discuss
facilities needs and to assist with staff engagement activities. E-Services staff is constructing the
project website https://boulderlibrary.org/about/library-master-plan/. The Programs, Events
and Outreach team is planning a two-day interactive event in April 2017 in the Canyon Gallery
which will have creative and engaging activities to solicit input from patrons on the Master Plan.
The city’s Communication team is investigating options for a new online engagement tool like
the Inspire Boulder platform used during the Civic Area and Community Cultural planning
projects. An update on each of these items will be provided at the March study session.
24
Attachment A.
Boulder Public Library: Community Engagement and Feedback
Survey Outline - Draft
1. Demographic Information [will have range of options in each]
a. Age
b. Gender
c. Race and Ethnicity
d. Primary language spoken at home
e. Annual income
f. Educational attainment
i. Current University student CU/Naropa
g. Location
i. List of neighborhoods or known regions/areas
ii. Zip code
h. Length of Boulder residence
i. Parent of child living at home [we could use a range of options here as well 0-5,6-12, 13-
18
2. Library Usage
a. Which library do you most frequently visit/Which library is your home library
i. Main library, 1001 Arapahoe Avenue
ii. Carnegie Branch Library for Local History
iii. George Reynolds Branch Library
iv. Meadows Branch Library
v. NoBo Corner Library
vi. I do not have a library that I consider my home library
b. Frequency of library visits
c. Frequency of library website usage
d. Reason for visiting
i. Borrow physical materials [books, music, movies,etc]
ii. Borrow digital materials [ebooks, streaming movies, audio, etc.]
iii. Children’s programming [Storytime]
iv. I take my children there
v. Use meeting rooms
vi. Do research
vii. Quiet space to read or study
viii. Use computers and the internet
ix. Opportunities for civic engagement and volunteering
x. Attend a community/group meeting
xi. Public meeting space
xii. Meet friends
xiii. Go to the Café
xiv. Small business consulting
25
xv. Opportunities to learn about various community events
xvi. Adult programming [concerts, movies, author events]
xvii. Hands-on learning and creative opportunities with technology
xviii. Research or explore local history
xix. Other
e. Reason for not visiting more
i. Hours of operation prevent me
ii. No real need to go
iii. Too busy
iv. Parking is often an issue
v. Doesn’t have what I need to read or borrow
vi. The distance to the library makes it inconvenient
vii. Its easier to buy books and media
viii. Finding items I need is too intimidating or difficult
ix. Library does not seem safe
x. Primarily use other libraries for my needs
xi. Other
f. How important are [how much value do you place on] the following library services (5
point Likert Scale with a Not at all important to me to very important to me)
i. Physical materials [books, movies, music, etc.]
ii. Virtual materials [ebooks, streaming movies, databases, etc
iii. Children’s programming [storytime, STEAM, Summer Reading]
iv. Cultural programming [Concerts, Movies, Author events]
v. Access to computers and technology
vi. Meeting rooms
vii. Location of the library
viii. The physical building
ix. The library staff
x. Public meetings and / or group meetings to engage in civic dialogue with both
leaders and residents of Boulder
xi.
g. Library usage moving forward (Please indicate how frequently you see yourself doing the
following items in 10 years compared to how frequently you do them now, 5 point Likert
scale: Significantly less, less, about the same, more, significantly more)
i. Borrowing books
ii. Borrowing media
iii. Borrowing digital media
iv. Attending children’s programming
v. Taking my children there
vi. Using meeting rooms
vii. Using it as a quiet space to read or study
viii. Use of computers and the internet
ix. Finding opportunities for civic engagement
x. For opportunities to engage in community dialogue
xi. Public meeting space
26
xii. To learn about various community events
xiii. Attending adult programming [concerts, movies, author events]
xiv. Partaking in hands-on learning and creative opportunities with technology
xv. Researching or exploring local history
3. Role of Library in the Community
a. How well does the library meet the needs of your family? (Scale 1-10 from not at all to
meets needs very well)
b. How well does the library meet the needs of your community (Scale 1-10 from not at all
to meets needs very well)
c. Closing of library impact on family (Scale 1-10 from no impact to major impact)
d. Closing of library impact on community (Scale 1-10 from no impact to major impact)
e. Current Library contribution to the community (5 point scale, No contribution to Major
Contribution)
i. Promoting a sense of community
ii. Educational opportunities, children and youth
iii. Educational opportunities, adult
iv. Educational opportunities, new technology
v. Community gathering place to address challenges in community/ community
dialogue
vi. Spark creativity
vii. Community space for performing arts/cultural events
viii. Providing a safe space
ix. Trustworthy / balanced information
x. Helping people when they seek health information
xi. Helping people find jobs
xii. Small business consulting
xiii. Provide opportunities for economic development
xiv. Provide space to learn about and promote civic engagement and volunteer
opportunities within the community
f. Anticipated Need for more/improvement of contributions over next 10 years (Please
consider how the role of the library and to how it’s contributions to the Boulder
community as a whole will change over the next 10 years for the following items. Do you
anticipate the need for these contributions to be: A great deal less, Somewhat less,
About the same, Somewhat more, A great deal more).
i. Promoting a sense of community
ii. Educational opportunities, children and youth
iii. Educational opportunities, adult
iv. Educational opportunities, new technology
v. Community gathering place to address challenges in community/ community
dialogue
vi. Spark creativity
vii. Community space for performing arts/cultural events
viii. Providing a safe space
ix. Trustworthy / balanced information
x. Helping people when they seek health information
27
xi. Helping people find jobs
xii. Small business consulting
xiii. Provide opportunities for economic development
xiv. Provide space to learn about and promote civic engagement and volunteer
opportunities within the community
4. Library Support
a. How do I support the library (Previous survey was a check all that apply)
i. Through using the library
ii. Encouraging others to join
iii. Making donations
iv. Advocating for libraries
v. Encouraging others to visit
vi. Volunteering my time
vii. Voting in favor of library ballots during elections
viii. Donating books
ix. None of the above
x. Other
b. If there were a ballot item to increase library funding through a tax increase, how likely
would you be to vote in favor of it?
5. Please think about the role your library plays in your life and community now, how do you see
that changing over the next 10 years?
6. Interest in participating in focus group
28
Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
Introduction
The role of the public library in North America has begun to grow and transform from a place that
provides free and equal access to information, where people can get books; to include increased
opportunities for obtaining 21st century skills, civic engagement, and social gathering. Public libraries
are becoming an expression of their community’s vision, innovation and creativity.
Through active engagement, listening, and facilitating the expression of the community’s priorities,
libraries are adapting programs, services, and policies to help to address the community’s stated needs.
In this expanded role, libraries are also uniquely positioned to provide a platform and facilitate
connections among community members, playing an active role in creating the social environment
desired by its members. This new, expanded role necessitates library staff to consider broad community
needs in designing and offering library programs and services.
The Boulder Public Library seeks to fulfill its mission and inform and guide the development of
programs, services, and policies by collaborating with its community.
The Boulder Public Library's mission is to enhance the personal and professional growth of
Boulder residents and contribute to the development and sustainability of an engaged
community through free access to ideas, information, cultural experiences and educational
opportunities.
The Boulder Public Library goals as articulated in the Master Plan are intended to reflect the aspirations
and priorities of the community and correlate to Boulder's Sustainability Framework outcomes, which
articulates Boulder's vision for a great community, by putting library resources and the staff's skills at
the service of the community.
[Insert Sustainability Framework]
Rooted within the context of the community's aspirations and priorities, the intent of the Boulder Public
Library Master Plan is to:
1. provide flexible guidance in the design of library programs and services and resource allocation
to address community needs and priorities;
2. set forth a future plan for creating and maintaining partnerships with community agencies and
interdepartmental coordination within the city to increase collaboration and to create
integrated outcomes;
3. set forth a future plan for library facilities and guide decision making, coordination, and detailed
facility planning;
4. provide options for a comprehensive financing strategy, including capital budgeting for facilities
and multiple types of financing sources—public, private, non-profit, grants, and others—to
accomplish the expressed vision;
5. provide an analysis of the possible options for governance and funding for the library system.
29
Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
Community Goals and Needs Assessment
Several community planning documents and websites were reviewed to leverage research, community
input, and priorities gathered through these other planning processes that identified community needs.
The resources reviewed were chosen because the stated goals or problems to be solved are closely tied
to the City of Boulder’s Sustainability Framework outcomes of creating: a livable community; accessible
and connected community; economically vital community; and healthy and socially thriving community.
Library services directly impact these outcomes at some level.
The purpose of the needs assessment was to:
provide contextual information about the Boulder community's needs and priorities and identify
areas of focus in which the library can support and/or impact in fulfilling its mission.
provide a framework for aligning library services to address community needs.
provide information about how library service levels should change over time given the context
of needs and trends in the community, budget and resource restraints, and changing community
preferences and priorities.
demonstrate how the Boulder Public Library is an integral community asset.
In addition to researching planning documents and websites, the library engaged Margaret Sullivan
Studio to assist with the needs assessment by interviewing 16 community leaders to help establish a
baseline understanding of the library’s current role in the community and to begin to understand the
community’s needs, and challenges from the individual leaders’ perspectives. The leaders that
participated in these initial interviews represented the library, city government, non-profit agencies, and
organizations that currently partner with the library.
The needs identified through the research and initial interviews with community leaders will be further
explored with community members to identify the community preferences and priorities for library
services during focus group discussions, stakeholder meetings, a community survey, and other
engagement activities.
Findings on community goals and needs:
Several key inter-related themes that are underpinned by community values and the City of Boulder's
Sustainability Framework were identified during the review of planning documents from agencies in
Boulder County and from the City of Boulder. Several of the goals from these plans describe forming
partnerships with community agencies and professional as a strategy to address the specific priorities.
30
Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
The following are notes from the planning documents reviewed.
Economic diversity and resilience
“Boulder will continue to be recognized throughout the world as a city where employers and employees
thrive in a manner consistent with Boulder’s environmental and social values.” (City of Boulder Economic
Sustainability Strategy)
“Minority- and local-owned businesses and non-profits
To support minority-owned businesses, the city will consider expanding its subsidy to the Colorado
Enterprise Fund for micro enterprise loans to qualified businesses that are unable to obtain financing
from traditional sources. The fund also provides management consulting and business training support
to businesses that receive loans. In addition, city business incentive program funding may be expanded
to assist minority and locally-owned businesses. City Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)-
funded grants and/ or loans may be increased to help non-profit organizations purchase or make capital
improvements to property in the Transit Village area.” (Boulder Junction Area Plan)
"Support the growth and resiliency of small businesses in Boulder County by providing free business
consulting, practical workshops & events and connection to resources, including financing. The Small
Business Development Center (SBDC) helps all types of small businesses – from startups through 2nd
stage, from “Main Street” through highly scalable technology ventures. Some programming in both
English and Spanish." (Boulder Small Business Development Center)
"Support, promote and expand local agriculture, making fresh products accessible to our community
and strengthening relationships between local food producers and food consumers.
“Showcase local food and drink through an affordable, transparent, and seasonal menu, to engage the
public with local agriculture, and to serve as a vibrant gathering space for the local food community."
(Boulder County Farmers’ Market and Seeds Library Café)
The percentage of people living in poverty has grown. There is a deep and lingering gap between the
incomes of Anglo and Latino households - a much bigger gap than the one that exists between those
two populations nationwide. (Community Foundation of Boulder County 2015 TRENDS report)
Social health
"Nurturing Community Integration -The foundation of a strong and supportive community safety net is a
seamless and collaborative system of services that allows people to access what they need where they
are, and to have the support to learn how they might live healthier, happier and more productive lives."
(Boulder County Housing and Human Services Strategic Plan)
31
Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
"Reinforcing the pillars of Self-Sufficiency - Nurturing Community Integration - Individuals and families
succeed in achieving their goals and supporting themselves when they are able to live stable lives free
from unsettling crises. By strengthening the pillars of self-sufficiency for individuals and families, our
community collectively becomes safer, healthier, and thriving in the most rapid and effective manner."
(Boulder County Housing and Human Services Strategic Plan)
"The Community Foundation was asked to facilitate collaboration among nonprofit organizations serving
homeless single adults in the City of Boulder, we were ready. The Boulder Homeless Service
Collaborative includes The Community Foundation, Bridge House, the Boulder Shelter for the Homeless,
and Boulder Outreach for Homeless Overflow, known as BOHO. The collaborative first did a data dive to
better understand what services were being provided by the three agencies and how a seamless and
efficient continuum of services could be developed to ultimately help clients find permanent solutions
for healthy and stable lives."
"The collaborative’s action plan includes increasing capacity for resource centers and overnight and day
sheltering, as well as streamlining client registration and data collection. And, the work meshes with
approaches of other collaborations along the Front Range. “By supporting collaborations among
agencies, community stakeholders, and other funders, we strengthen Boulder’s ability to provide lasting
solutions for members of our community who are homeless." (Community Foundation of Boulder County
2015 TRENDS report)
"In 2013, there were two times as many people who attended a cultural event for free or a reduced
price as those who paid full price, according to the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD). It’s
great news for those who believe access to arts and culture is important to society. It also reflects the
rising costs of cultural events, and the fact that those ticket prices can pose a genuine barrier to people
and families in need."
"Colorado schoolchildren are direct beneficiaries of the cultural organizations here. The Education
Commission of the States conducted a study of 25,000 students nationwide, and found that children
exposed to the arts perform better on standardized tests – regardless of their socioeconomic status.
(Community Foundation of Boulder County 2015 TRENDS report)
"Boulder County has a reputation for being ‘open’ at least when it comes to certain progressive ideals.
We have an opportunity for improvement, however, when it comes to immigrants and racial or ethnic
minorities. The Community Foundation’s survey in 2015 found that those surveyed ranked our openness
to groups of immigrants and to people of color at the bottom of the list, with openness toward gays and
lesbians and young adults without children at the top." [Survey results by % presented on p. 92]
(Community Foundation of Boulder County 2015 TRENDS report)
“With adequate planning and forethought, communities can be designed to engage older adults through
volunteerism, civic engagement, employment, and participation in local opportunities, while at the same
time supporting aging in place for those older adults who may be more frail, vulnerable, or isolated.
32
Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
47% indicated that not knowing what services are available to older adults in the community was at
least a minor problem in the city of Boulder.
People of all ages participate in social, civic, cultural, educational, and recreational activities. Programs
to involve older adults with younger community members can increase the social engagement of older
adults, but also fill key needs of high-risk youth and other younger residents.
Opportunities exist for meaningful volunteer work. Volunteering in later life is associated with better
physical health and emotional well-being.” (Age Well Boulder County Strategic Plan – 2015)
Volunteer opportunities rated high in both survey results. (City of Boulder 2016 Community Survey)
Greater outreach to its under-served members. For example, the Spanish-speaking population. (This is
achieved by going OUT to where these members work, live, gather. Persons who are members of
underserved populations are not often able or comfortable engaging in civic activities or seeking
services outside their communities. (Community Leader Interviews)
Education and self-sufficiency
"Educational and Employment Development/Empowerment: Self-sufficiency is built on education,
training, and employment. Empowered clients are capable of making effective decisions that will
promote their well-being." (Boulder County Housing and Human Services Strategic Plan)
Helping immigrants to improve their English language skills fosters inclusion in our community and into
the American culture, builds their self-sufficiency and increases their potential to earn more competitive
salaries and become greater contributors to a healthy and socially thriving community. Further, it
enables immigrant parents to actively participate in their child’s education. (Intercambio Uniting
Communities)
To continue to attract an educated, creative and productive workforce, vital to Boulder’s economic
prosperity, a focus must be put on workforce training and high quality education, especially in the
Science, Technology, Education and Math (STEM) fields. (City of Boulder Economic Sustainability
Strategy)
As technology changes, there will be increased demand for a workforce with specialized skills. Current K-
12 and post K-12 higher education options, including non-university training, professional and technical
schools, and community colleges, may need to be expanded and customized to meet the needs of
employers, workers and residents. (City of Boulder Economic Sustainability Strategy)
Employers, educators and other partners need to work together to develop and support programs
designed to help attract workers with highly specialized skills and experience, and provide workforce
training opportunities. The Boulder Chamber and other community partners need to work together to
implement the Innovation Blueprint 3.0, in particular to “expand mentoring and training programs for
entrepreneurs, female and minority business leaders, facilitate cross-industry collaboration, and develop
talent among our university student population.” (City of Boulder Economic Sustainability Strategy)
33
Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
The University of Colorado’s role is one of a national comprehensive research university. Priorities
include learning and discovery in a global context and setting new standards in education, research,
scholarship and creative work that will benefit Colorado and the world. Two of the core initiatives
parallel goals and values of the City of Boulder and the public library:
Learning for a diverse world – Implement new strategies for improving diversity; foster a
supportive and inclusive climate for all.
Serving Colorado, the Community, and Our Graduates – Expand outreach programming aimed at
Colorado communities; enhance opportunities for lifelong and distance learning.
(Flagship 2030 – A strategic plan for the University of Colorado at Boulder)
"Boulder Valley School District will partner with students, families, staff, and community members to
address the unique learning needs of each student and to create meaningful and engaging opportunities
for each child." Specific actions have been developed in a range of areas to address this goal. A
sustainable community partnership program will establish mutually-beneficial and sustainable
partnerships with government agencies, businesses, nonprofits and other community members. These
community partnerships need to advance the talent and learning strategies with our partners and be
aligned with the Vision, Mission and Goals of the district.”
“The district aspires to create successful, curious, lifelong learners who confidently confront the
challenges of their time. Respecting individual learners as key to accomplishing this vision. Individual
learning plans for children in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade will be designed to empower student
choice, align to postsecondary career/college goals, integrate curiosity into the classroom, and provide
applications to explore students’ personal interests. Graduation requirements will require that 21st
century skills are embedded in courses, and include portfolios, apprenticeships/internships, digital
citizenship standards, capstone projects, and will align with postsecondary benchmarks. These individual
learning plans will support students’ career/college goals. Teachers encourage curiosity into the
classroom through problem/project based learning, student-led questioning, and the exploration of
students’ individual dreams. Learning social/emotional skills will be incorporated to create holistic
learning that is fostered, collaboratively, by parents, and the school.”
“Early childhood education will include designing comprehensive high-quality academic environments
that are developmentally appropriate and emphasize strong, positive adult and child interactions that
include young learners, families, and staff. Specifically, building strong literacy and math foundations,
social and emotional competencies for both children and schools, successful school transitions,
development of readiness indicators, family partnerships and engagement, universal preschool, full-day
kindergarten, summer programs, and program evaluation are priorities.” (Boulder Valley School District
Superintendent’s Strategic Plan)
"Ready Community – The community recognizes the importance of early childhood as integral to the
quality of life in Boulder County and a critical part of the continuum of social equity. The community
implements policies that supports all families with young children throughout the county." Desired early
learning outcomes include:
34
Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
o Increased capacity and number of high-quality early childhood programs for infants, toddlers
and preschoolers
o Increased access to high-quality early childhood programs for infants, toddlers and preschoolers
o Increased percentage of children meeting developmental milestones to demonstrate school
readiness
o Decreased gaps in school readiness and academic achievement between populations of children
"Ready Families – Families are empowered to nurture their children’s healthy growth and development
as their children’s first and best teachers. Families have access to programs and services to support their
children’s development and can advocate effectively for their children." Desired social, emotional and
mental health outcomes include:
o Increased social-emotional competence in young children
o Increased knowledge and practice of supportive, nurturing behaviors within families
o Increased community awareness about the importance of healthy social emotional
development and resiliency in children
"Ready Children – Children arrive ready for school; healthy, well-adjusted and having been exposed to
the fundamentals of learning." (Early Childhood Council of Boulder County’s, Early Childhood Framework)
“Far too often, Latino kids and kids who are economically disadvantaged are falling behind their peers.
The Community Foundation is dedicated to taking a leadership role in narrowing the achievement gap.
Achievement gap = the difference in academic performance between kids from high- and middle-
income, educated families and that of their peers whose backgrounds include more risk factors and less
opportunity. Closing this gap was identified as one of the most critical community challenges and a top
priority for the Community Foundation.” (Community Foundation of Boulder County 2015 TRENDS
report)
“The five big ideas - one was build an authentic Early Learning Awareness Campaign for and by Latino
parents. Build Latino parent leadership and advocacy on early learning. New program - ELPASO -
Engaged Latino Parent Advancing School Outcomes.” (Community Foundation of Boulder County 2015
TRENDS report)
"Boulder seniors benefit from continuing education through the public library system, including a tour of
the Carnegie Branch Library for Local History in 2014." (Age Well Boulder County Strategic Plan – 2015)
“A value of advancing self-sufficiency and independence
o Our human services system values moving people along the continuum toward self-sufficiency
or stability, while providing ongoing support to those who need it in a manner that promotes
maximum independence (HSSP).
o The community should always be leading people to self-sufficiency and independence, not to
reliance and dependence. (LHOT).
A value of using resources wisely within a coordinated and collaborative system
35
Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
o Our human services system values and promotes collaboration and coordination on every level
including among local governments, private funders, non-profit community organizations, and
our residents and consumers (HSSP).
o We value partnering for progress to successfully address needs and gaps, prevent the
duplication of services, and implement strategies that will eliminate homelessness and the root
causes of homelessness (LHOT).” (Boulder County's Ten Year Plan to End Homelessness)
“Support the advancement of self-sufficiency and independence
Individuals and families should have support to achieve the maximum degree of self-sufficiency and
independence possible.
Family Self-Sufficiency of Boulder County (FSS) is a 5-year program that offers eligible low-income
families the opportunity to receive a wide array of coordinated services and set training and educational
goals that lead to better-paying jobs and/or homeownership for self-sufficiency. In order to provide
participants with the support they need to improve financial burdens, FSS helps participants access child
care assistance, financial aid, transportation, and emergency financial help for rent, utilities, and child
care costs.” (Building a Community of Hope 2016 Annual Report. Boulder County Dept. Of Housing and
Human Services)
Accessible neighborhoods and community spaces
“Boulder’s workforce is drawn to employment areas with a wide variety of amenities, uses, and services
(e.g. restaurants, retail), recreational amenities, the arts, and increased walkability to public
transportation, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. The primary employers are concentrated in three main
areas: East Boulder (44%), Gunbarrel (15%) and Downtown (15%). Other significant areas where
employers are located include Twenty Ninth Street (Crossroads sub-community, Boulder Junction, the
North Boulder sub-community. The main employment centers of East Boulder and Gunbarrel lack a
diversity of amenities, uses, and services (e.g. restaurants, retail), increased walkability, recreational
amenities, the arts, and increased access to public transportation, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities to
meet the needs of Boulder’s workforce. Specific actions to enhance the East Boulder and Gunbarrel
areas to attract companies and employees include: more restaurants, retail services, the arts, and
increased multi-modal access to public transportation and bicycle and pedestrian facilities.”
(City of Boulder Economic Sustainability Strategy)
“The vision for the Transit Village area includes a new neighborhood and an attractive destination for
the larger city. The high-density, walkable, mixed use, neighborhood will provide the opportunity for
people to live close to jobs, services, entertainment, transit, bikeways, a new park and a civic plaza.
Goals include creating a well-used and well-loved, pedestrian -oriented place with walkable street and a
variety of community gathering spaces at different scales. It will support diversity by offering services
that support residents, adjacent neighbors and businesses Pearl Street Center district will become a
high-intensity mixture of housing and retail with a significant amount of affordable housing on the city-
owned portion of the site.”
36
Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
Diversity
"Support a diverse population of residents and employees through land uses, travel options, and
services. Met by: Implementation includes exploring the feasibility of new library, child care and
HeadStart services, as well as increased financial assistance for locally- and minority-owned businesses
and non-profits."
Library
"Future increases in job and population levels in Transit Village area can be accommodated
without significantly diminishing the city’s current library service standards. Service standards
will be reviewed in the 2012 Library Master Plan update. The update may also address
additional branch facilities or supporting library services, such as a book return, for the area."
Partnerships between the city and private developers may also provide affordable space in the Transit
Village area for non-profits or businesses that provide a community benefit. The developer would offer
space in lower lease-rate, probably less visible location, and the city may provide some funding if
needed. (Boulder Junction Area Plan).
“Safe, affordable transportation is a lynchpin issue for creating age-friendly neighborhoods with access
to essential services being seamless, barrier free, affordable, and welcoming being a goal for basic
needs. Maintaining connections with family, friends, community members and organizations is
necessary for successful aging.” (Age Well Boulder County Strategic Plan – 2015)
Public library services per geographic area. Crosstab report P.6. Gunbarrel lowest.
(City of Boulder 2016 Community Survey)
More spaces for its members to spend time and relax in a family setting.
Productive spaces for its members experiencing homelessness, near-homelessness and who are
mentally ill to spend time during the day.
More mobile library units to support outreach into the community. (Community Leader Interviews)
“Walking is the fundamental way to travel and connects travel by all other modes. The city will
prioritize and support pedestrian travel as the primary mode throughout the community and ensure
adequate connections to public transit.
The Transit Village Area Plan (TVAP) is a model for comprehensive TDM [transportation demand
management] and parking management programs that minimize traffic impacts while allowing
redevelopment to create new neighborhoods that meet the needs and desires of the community.
Giving more workers the opportunity to live and work in compact, walkable neighborhoods and
mixed-use districts is an equally essential outcome to improving regional transit. This theme is
particularly relevant to the concurrent work efforts on a Comprehensive Housing Strategy, Sustainable
Streets and Centers, and the Neighborhood Access analysis.
Increase the share of residents living in complete neighborhoods to 80 percent The GIS-based
Neighborhood Access Tool produces walk sheds based on a 15-minute walk to get to a variety of
37
Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
destinations. The number of destinations available by walking determines the access score. About 26
percent of Boulder’s population lives in a neighborhood with an access score greater than 69, meaning
they can walk to a grocery store, park, restaurant, and transit stop. Increasing the number of complete
neighborhoods will help change long trips into short ones, making walking a reasonable option for a
greater share of trips. It is the lack of destinations in many areas that generates the current low access
score.” (2014 City of Boulder Transportation Master Plan)
“Destination: Be an enjoyable destination for the community and visitors; Be an integrated place that
blends “natural” and “built” environments;
Welcoming and Safe: Be designed to be welcoming, accessible, comfortable, clean and safe;
Space for All: Foster programming and design of spaces and facilities to encourage use and participation
by all age groups, income levels, and visitors and locals, avoiding the predominance of any one group of
people;
The West End (the area west of Broadway between Canyon and Arapahoe) will include the existing
library on both sides of the creek; a cafe; the West Senior Center; the landmarked Municipal Building; a
new multi-use building on the St. Julien Civic Use Pad, as well as structured parking. The north and/or
south library may redevelop to accommodate a small performing arts facility and meeting space
(possibly connected by a pedestrian bridge over Canyon Boulevard to a future use at the Civic Use Pad).
There is the possibility of mixing private and public development to generate 24/7 vitality. A new
pedestrian bridge across Boulder Creek west of the existing covered library bridge will better connect
the west park area, as well as any future new activities and uses if the Senior Center and the north
library are redeveloped. The Municipal Building may be repurposed for a hands-on arts center or
museum.
A: CITY SERVICES AND LIBRARY Includes north library much as it is today and the Municipal Building
continuing to operate as city hall. The Senior Center site may redevelop as municipal services (with
Senior Center relocating elsewhere, possibly including downtown) or redevelop onsite as a multi-
purpose senior center facility.
The West End will include the existing south wing of the library as it is today, the Municipal Building,
structure parking, and outdoor space and parks. With further analysis, any of the above possible
program elements could also occur here, provided they meet the performance criteria.
B: ARTS AND CULTURE FOCUS Includes redeveloped north library site to accommodate a small
performing arts facility and meeting space, and repurposed Municipal Building as a hands-on arts center
or museum. The West Senior Center is redeveloped as a multi-purpose facility, possibly including some
housing.
Continue to explore a blend of indoor and outdoor arts, cultural and science facilities and spaces as an
integral and important components of the Civic Area, including:
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Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
New facilities as an addition to, or as a redevelopment of, the north wing of the library.
The community wants new arts, culture, and science in the Civic Area and has expressed interest in a
community events venue for meetings, banquets, reception dinners, charitable events, etc.
Continue to explore the feasibility of a performing arts center—either as an addition to or redevelopment
of the north wing of the Main Library or on 13th Street as part of a mixed-use complex. A facility may
generate excitement and should reflect emerging trends in arts facility programming and usage. The
demand for and capital and operation costs of a facility requires further study, as does its projected
impact on the Downtown and other venues in and near Boulder. Any facility would need to meet the
Guiding Principles and performance criteria in this plan.
A nonprofit group, The Boulder Center for the Performing Arts, is conducting a feasibility study for a
performing arts center. The group has expressed preference for a mid-sized performing arts center (800-
1,200 fixed seats) that would be built through a private/public partnership on city-owned land. Various
community groups and the Arts Commission have questioned demand for a larger facility but have
noted possible needs for a smaller performance venue (approx 500 seats). Furthermore, a flexible
venue, rather than fixed seat auditorium, is of interest to many in Boulder as it could provide space for
large meetingsand events as well as performances. Regardless, any facility must ensure active use
throughout the week to avoid creating an inactive zone downtown when it is not in use.” (Plan for
Boulder's Civic Area)
“Civic Spaces Boulder Parks and Recreation Department also manages other land types for various uses
not characterized by the classifications above. These include areas like Columbia Cemetery, the historic
Harbeck House, Pearl Street Mall, and the Civic Area around the Municipal Complex, including the
library grounds and Municpal Building. Civic spaces also include the Boulder Creek Bike Path and several
community garden sites.
The Boulder Public Library manages small parcels of land that host concerts and events.
Other Providers of Recreation Facilities and Programs In addition to providing small outdoor spaces for
events, the Boulder Public Library occasionally offers film screenings, art shows, and literary events.”
(Boulder Parks and Recreation Master Plan)
Civic participation and Inclusivity
“Struggle to be inclusive with our increasingly diverse community. How do we create a culture of
openness and mutual valuing? Do we have community leaders ready to build culturally relevant
programs and practices?”
“Like many community leaders, we were troubled that children growing up in poverty didn’t fare any
better in Boulder County than they did around the state, despite our tremendous local resources and
39
Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
successful track record with middle and upper income kids. We knew the biggest return on investment
long-term was investing in our community’s most vulnerable children while they were as young as
possible.”
“Parents in poverty did not have the same seat at the table where policy decisions affecting them were
being made. The key of resident engagement is missing. Resident engagement = involving "active,
meaningful participation by the people who live in the neighborhoods where change is occurring.”
“A focus of the Community Foundation = connecting our community leaders to the families they wanted
to impact most; and helping parents with young children find their voices as community leaders. They
are holding these Latino Parent Engagement Forums.” (Community Foundation of Boulder County 2015
TRENDS report)
See page 95 for survey results on various forms of civic participation. "Boulder County’s elected
leadership, and its advisory boards and commissions, are not reflective of the racial and ethnic diversity
of the county as a whole. In 1990, 93 percent of the county’s residents were Anglo, or white non-Latino.
By 2013, more than 20 percent of the county identified as a person of color. Yet in 2015, only 7 percent
of those serving on municipal boards or commissions were a person of color, according to a review by
the Boulder County Commissioners Office. That percentage was unchanged county-wide from 2013..."
(Community Foundation of Boulder County 2015 TRENDS report)
Multigenerational interactions and civic activity is on the decline in America. (Age Well Boulder County
Strategic Plan – 2015)
"Expand Public Education About Homelessness and Community Solutions
o Provide accessible information about homeless populations, unique characteristics and
needs, community programs, and results achieved.
o Work with community partners to identify and implement consistent community messaging
to and about homeless populations, community programs, and services available."(COB
Homelessness Strategy)
A context in which its members can dialogue with one another, instead of having their differences
amplified in separate silos.
To learn to listen to each other – engaging in conversations in which its members learn to be active
listeners and empathize with others' problems.
To develop leadership in the "next" generation of Boulder community members.
Improved, productive communication between community members and the city.
For its members without time or finances to still have the ability to be civically engaged if they choose
to, so that everyone's voice can be heard, not just those persons who can afford it. (Community Leader
Interviews)
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Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
[Coordinate with Parks and Recreaction Department to connect the Main Library to the Civic Area
through program and events.] (Plan for Boulder's Civic Area)
“Prioritize the civic dialogue about the ability of culture to positively contribute to the economy, social
offerings, the environment, and the authentic expression of diversity.”
“Advance Civic Dialogue, Awareness, and Participation Community Priorities – Prioritize the civic
dialogue about the ability of culture to positively contribute to the economy, social offerings, the
environment, and the authentic expression of diversity. And, develop Boulder’s creative identity in
becoming an innovative world leader in cultural matters and project that identity to the region and the
world.
Goal – Every person in Boulder will understand their role in the culture of the community, feel that
access to information about culture is readily at hand, and will feel invited into the conversation.
Facilitate the Civic Dialogue – the community’s desire for a sophisticated, city-wide engagement around
culture will be facilitated by the Office of Arts + Culture with opportunities for inquiry and exchange in
civic gatherings, online, industry meet-ups, in the media, and other forums.”
“Culture Amplify the vibrancy of Boulder’s cultural destinations: the lively mix of museums,
performance venues, events, districts, studios, maker spaces, and other facilities that make Boulder an
enticing place to visit, live, play, and work. Fill in the gaps and address issues of access and affordability.”
“Create and Enhance Venues Community Priority – Amplify the vibrancy of Boulder’s cultural
destinations: the museums, performance venues, events, districts, studios, maker spaces, and other
facilities. Work to fill in the gaps and address issues of access and affordability.
Goal – Improve the resiliency of visual and performing arts organizations, and the experience of their
audiences, which are currently challenged by gaps in studio, rehearsal, performance, and exhibition
space. Mitigate the barriers to innovation and sustainability that are encountered due to these
challenges.
Civic Area Venues – A project to build a performing arts venue in the Civic Area has been ongoing for
some time. The Boulder Center for the Performing Arts is a group of volunteer advocates that has
worked closely with city staff on this project. They have recently demonstrated that their concept for a
performing arts venue may indeed fill a significant gap in available facilities. Though there are a number
of considerations that many city officials and the public need to keep in mind, the Office of Arts +
Culture is in a position to advocate for the specific cultural value that success in this project will bring to
the community. Staff will continue to support the investigation of a venue in the Civic Area with the
Boulder Center for the Performing Arts organization and other city agencies. Carefully consider not only
how to fund and build such a venue, but perhaps more importantly, how the programming and
management of the facility will best be an enhancement to the mix of cultural organizations in Boulder,
and how the sustainable business model will be a consistent benefit to the community.”
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Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
“Strengthen Culture in our Neighborhoods and Communities Community Priorities – Focus on the
expression of culture and creativity in the public realm through public art, the urban landscape, culture
in the neighborhoods, and serendipitous encounters with the arts. And, prioritize the civic dialogue
about the ability of culture to positively contribute to the economy, social offerings, the environment,
and the authentic expression of diversity.
Goal – Every resident of Boulder finds ways to creatively impact their neighborhood and social
community, with an emphasis on underserved groups, and has easy access to cultural experiences in the
places that are most important to their everyday lives.
Consultation on Existing and New Spaces – Currently, opportunities exist in facilities operated by the
Library, Parks and Recreation, and other city departments, to take advantage of venues for cultural uses.
This is true only when that can align with those departments’ plans and missions. Yet, the potential of
using city facilities for filling in gaps in access, availability, and affordability of venues may have
enormous benefits. The Office of Arts + Culture needs the leadership of other city agencies in
accomplishing this goal. Staff will take advantage of the expertise and passion these agencies have for
improving Boulder to advocate for cultural uses in existing and planned municipal facilities.
A priority in this program area will be to build or improve venues in the Civic Area for visual and
performing arts. The 2012 Civic Area Vision Plan articulates a community desire for lively arts
experiences. Given this direction, the existing assets of the Library, Boulder Museum of Contemporary
Art (BMoCA), the Farmers’ Market, and a variety of festivals and events should be enhanced. New
opportunities are emerging: BMoCA is considering expansion, there are discussions about a possible
reuse of the Municipal Building, the bandshell and other spaces may be redesigned for new uses, an
"arts campus" is proposed by the Boulder Arts Commission, and the Boulder Performing Arts Center
group is proposing new facilities in the Civic Area.” (Community Cultural Plan)
“Building Community and Relationships
• Civic spaces and close-to-home parks are important components of building strong neighborhoods and
making social connections.
• The public desires more parks and facilities events to engage the community, such as block parties and
local celebrations.” ((Boulder Parks and Recreation Master Plan)
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Attachment B. DRAFT Needs Assessment Notes
Additional resources reviewed
Boulder Fire-Rescue Master Plan, 2012 (Reference for plan structure)
Facilities and Assets Management Master Plan, 2005 (Reference in the facilities section of plan)
City of Boulder draft Resilience Strategy (Referenced in the community trends and priorities section of
plan)
Needs Assessment resources to read
Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan and associated survey - projections for neighborhood population.
City Council goals and work plan 2017
City of Boulder Human Services Strategic Plan, 2017
http:bouldereconomiccouncil.org/boulder-economy/demographic-economic-data/
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To: Boulder Public Library Commission
From: David Farnan, Library and Arts Director
Jennifer Phares, Deputy Library Director
Maureen Malone, Administrative Specialist II
Date: January 27, 2017
Subject: Review and approval of Library Commission handbook updates
Background:
The Library Commission handbook is posted on the Library Commission webpage at
https://boulderlibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/2017-Library-Commission-
Handbook.pdf. The Library Commission requested additional changes to those presented during
the Jan. 4, 2017 meeting.
Additional updates to the handbook:
Distinction between library commissioner and library board member or trustee
To clarify the difference between the role of a library commissioner and the role of a library
board member or trustee, staff proposes the following information for the library commissioner
job description:
Library commissioners are volunteers appointed by City Council as an advisory body to
the library director and City Council whereas, library board members or trustees in other
jurisdictions may be appointed or elected to serve on a board that has decision-making
authority for that library.
Overview of library operations
The highlighted information was added to the administration section of the Overview of Library
Operations document. This change was also made to the same information on the city website
https://bouldercolorado.gov/city-council/library-and-arts-department. The change will be
incorporated into this information in the 2018 city budget document.
Administration
Administration is comprised of the office of the director, general administrative functions,
such as project/contract management and long-range planning, budget and accounts payable,
public information, volunteer services, administrative support for the Library Commission
and Arts Commission, and general operations of the Main Library facility. Administration
also serves as the liaison to the Boulder Library Foundation by providing administrative
support to the annual grants program.
Questions for the Library Commission:
1.Does the Library Commission have any other changes for the handbook?
2.Will the Library Commission approve these changes to the handbook?
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To: Boulder Public Library Commission
From: David Farnan, Library and Arts Director
Jennifer Phares, Deputy Library Director
Date: January 27, 2017
Subject: Library Commission and staff review of library policies and guidelines inventory
Background: The Library Commission reviewed the current library policy inventory at the Jan. 4, 2017
meeting https://boulderlibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/12-07-2016-LC-Meeting-Packet.pdf.
Schedule for policy update review: Staff proposes the following schedule for policy update review
during 2017. This schedule is subject to change as needed due to staff capacity and associated project
timelines. E-Services staff will assess and make changes to how policy information is organized and
accessed on the library website during the next two months.
1st Quarter
Date Title
Feb. 1, 2017 Materials Donation Guidelines
Mar. 1, 2017 Internet Access Policy and Acceptable Use Policy for Electronic
Information Resources
Mar. 1, 2017 Interlibrary Loan Guidelines
2nd Quarter
Date Title
May 3, 2017 Circulation policy: holds limit
TBD Guidelines for authors and publishers
3rd Quarter
Date Title
TBD Policies specific to the Carnegie Branch Library for Local History
4th Quarter
Date Title
TBD Create policy statement on inclusivity related to all-gender restrooms
Materials Donation Guidelines: The current Materials Donation Guidelines are online at:
https://boulderlibrary.org/about/rules/donation-guidelines/. The revised version of the guidelines is
Attachment A. The revisions include input from Library Commissioners during the Jan. 4, 2017 meeting
and from the library leadership team.
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Questions for the Library Commission:
1.What input does the Library Commission have for staff regarding the proposed scheduling of the
policy updates?
2.What input does the Library Commission have about the revised Materials Donations
Guidelines?
3.Will the Library Commission make a motion to approve the Materials Donation Guidelines as
revised?
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Materials Donation Guidelines
Boulder Public Library accepts new or gently used:
Hardcover and paperback books
Media materials (DVDs, CDs, audiobooks) in good condition
The library cannot use the following materials: (Recycling information)
Cassette tapes
VHS tapes
Magazines
Encyclopedias
Reader’s Digest condensed books
Mass market (pocket) paperbacks
Vinyl records
Damaged or moldy materials
Used textbooks or materials with highlighting or handwriting (except author-signed books).
Bringing donations to the library
Please bring your donations in small boxes or bags that can be easily carried. Place your donated
materials in the donations room on the right, inside the Arapahoe entrance of the Main Library.
Please do not place donated materials in the book returns or leave them at the Meadows or Reynolds
branch libraries because of storage space limitations.
Donations are tax deductible
At your request, library staff will provide you with a letter of receipt that you may fill out for tax
purposes. The library staff is not qualified to determine the value of your donation. It will be up to you
to assign a value for tax purposes. Letters of receipt may be obtained at the accounts desk inside the
Arapahoe entrance of the Main Library.
Large donations (more than 10 boxes)
If you have a large amount of materials that you wish to donate, please contact the volunteer services
coordinator by phone at 303-441-3100 or e-mail Ask a Librarian with the quantity and a description of
the materials. Donated items are evaluated with care and we have only limited storage space to store
materials while they wait to be processed.
A staff person will contact you promptly to let you know if the library is able to accept a large number of
materials at the time you wish to bring in the materials.
What does the Boulder Public Library do with donations?
All donations are greatly appreciated. The library sells donated items at the library book shop and book
sales. The money raised by sales goes to fund the volunteer program and to purchase library materials.
Donated materials are not added to the library collection. Donated materials that the library cannot sell
are given to local nonprofit agencies or to Eco-Cycle for online sale, distribution to schools or thrift
stores, or recycling.
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What can I do with materials the library cannot accept?
Recycle! Reuse!
Most thrift stores accept books and other materials as donations. BetterWorld Books has several
collection boxes for books in the area. The Center for Hard-to-Recycle Materials (CHaRM) also accepts
materials for recycling.
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City of Boulder
2017 Library Commission Commission Memo
Meeting Date: February 1, 2017 – Canyon Meeting Room - Main
Upcoming Special meetings
March 13, 2017, 6:00 - Master Plan Study session - Canyon Meeting
Room
March (Date & place TBD) - Meeting with Community Reps
Interesting Upcoming Dates ( ALA Website):
Teen Tech Week - March 5-11, 2017
Freedom of Information Day - on or around March 16
D.E.A.R - Drop Everything and Read - April 12
National Library Week - April 9-15, 2017
National Library Workers Day - April 11, 2017 (Tuesday of National Library
Week)
Upcoming “Dinners on the Bridge”
February 17 (Friday)
March 17 (Friday)
April 7 (Friday)
ZEE JLF 2017 sessions are now streamable on the web
https://jaipurliteraturefestival.org/programme/
1. Items from Commission
A. Report-out on meetings with Council members
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2.BLF Update
3. Updates from Commissioners Representing the Commission
in other Venues (verbal)
BVCP
Civic Area
Canyon Complete Streets
EcoDistricts
4. Update on Emails to Library Commission
Hi, Kai -January 18, 2017
Just wanted to let you know that the City's Facilities and Assets Management folks
(FAM) will have a report for us on what's needed to create all gender bathrooms in the
BPL system at the Library Commission's February meeting: February 1, 6pm in the
Canyon Meeting Room (north side of Main).
We have this scheduled as the first substantive item on the agenda. FAM's report should
be posted on the Commission's website for packets on Friday, January 27th.
We look forward to seeing you at the meeting!
Best - Joni
January 18, 2017
Thank you, Joni. I will be there.
Best,
Kai
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DIRECTOR’S REPORT FEBRUARY 2017
2016 door count
Commission will receive the end of year report next month, but I did want to let you know the final door
count system-wide for 2016 was 982,412.
We will put an asterisk by this number in the final report. Both Meadows and George Reynolds
branches had closures (Mdws for 20 days, GRB for 13 days). Plus, we had TWO snow days in 2016 (very
unusual). Gina Scioscia has already looked at the same dates for 2015 when we were open on all of
these dates and the total visitors in that time was 21,277 for the branch libraries. One million is an
artificial [but fun!] goal for system-wide visitation. I believe we will hit it next year.
Current issues around transient population
As many of you have seen in media reporting, there is an increased attention on issues related to
transients along the Boulder Creek path. A few stories in the Daily Camera and letters to City Council
have complained about an increased number of transients who are not using city and or county shelter
services and electing to remain out of doors. This is resulting in an increased amount of waste,
specifically around the 9th street bridge just to the west of the library, and at various points along the
creek to the east.
We are also seeing an increase in the numbers of transients in the library. We have had no reported
complaints to the media, and I believe library staff and security are doing a good job of handling the
situation. Library staff treat all visitors with the same welcoming attitude and service. However, a slight
increase in incidents and noticeable increase in the belligerence of a small minority of people being
asked to correct behavior does have a demoralizing effect on front line staff. We have informed Boulder
Police Department. Secondarily we have recently received word that a couple of independent human
service agencies have decided to use the area just outside the library to distribute food and clothing to
homeless individuals as they leave the library at closing. While I think we are all in agreement that
certainly there are people in our community in need, I feel this unnecessarily creates the perception that
the library is a service point for the homeless – which is not in fact a part of our mission, nor are we
funded to provide. I have reached out through the City of Boulder’s Human Services Department to the
agencies reported to be distributing food and clothing. Human Services Director Karen Rahn has
reached out to the agencies and asked them to find other means of delivering these services.
Boulder Historical Society & Carnegie Library
As you all are at least partially aware, the Carnegie Library has been on nearly a year-long project to hire
consultants and install a new software system to digitize thousands of archival photos and make them
available online. This was a strategy we laid out nearly two years ago to better position the historical
archives of the Carnegie Library as an online digital collection available to the public 24/7. [It is also one
of the reasons we elected to scale back their hours open to the public in 2016.] We are now under
contract with a vendor for the digitization and should begin this process in next month.
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One thing you may not be aware of is that the Carnegie Library [City of Boulder] and the Boulder
Historical Society [BHS] relationship is governed by a contract that is managed by the Library & Arts
director. This contractual relationship is nearly 40 years old and has gone through numerous updates.
The gist of the contract governs the management of the historical collection which was donated by the
Daily Camera to the BHS. This collection is “owned” by the BHS and on “permanent loan” to the
Carnegie Library. Since 1985, the City of Boulder and Carnegie staff have devoted tens of thousands of
hours equivalent to hundreds of thousands of dollars making it available and accessible to the public by
housing, preserving, storing, and cataloguing each item. To my knowledge, the BHS has contributed
minimal time and nearly no dollars to the ongoing maintenance of the collection. I do not want to
downplay the importance of this collection. It is the single largest historical collection at the Carnegie
and an extremely valuable collection to the library and the residents of Boulder.
It is only now that we are launching a massive increase of the digital presence for this collection that
staff have questioned whether some elements of the contract may raise issues with our mission as a
public library to make collections freely available to the public and presented challenges for us to
administer. I met with BHS/Museum of Boulder (MoB) Director Nancy Geyer and a couple of her board
members some time ago to go over proposed changes to the contract. I asked them if they would
consider making the digital archive freely available to the public. They said they would consider it. At
that point we amended the 2016/17 contract to exclude digital watermarks on images that would be
online. This is a current ‘best practice’ of online archives and consistent with Boulder Public Library’s
mission to make information available free to the public. BHS/MOB has yet to sign that contract.
The current system has two channels for reproduction of images all governed by rights management
language. The language stipulates that use of the images is available for a small fee for private or
educational use. No commercial uses are allowed unless they pay use fees through BHS/MOB.
Practically, the process works like this: a member of the public requests through Carnegie staff an
archival print or rights to use an image. Library staff or volunteers then produce a copy and charge the
public a set price for scanning and/or use. This generates a small amount of revenue [less than $3K] that
goes to the general fund. If “usage” rights are required, the public is asked to pay through the BHS/MOB
website. The BHS/MOB sets a price for a “use” fee that is reflected in the contract. These funds are
collected by BHS/MOB.
The implementation of the digitization project is immanent. I recently sent an inquiry to Nancy Geyer
about the unresolved 2016/17 contract and again raised the issue of the watermark. A BHS staff
member responded that they did want to ‘digitally watermark’ each image. It is my assumption that
staff is insisting on its use to ensure attribution of ownership. Even though the stated ‘rights
management’ language requires attribution, prohibits commercial use, as well as a further list of
prohibited uses, it is my assumption that BHS/MOB wants further guarantees in the wild west of the
internet. To make a long story short: the library has a lot of time, energy and money invested in this
collection. We have requested through a contract [not signed] that BHS/MOB give up digitally
watermarking images. BHS staff archivist is balking at this request. I am fine to go forward with
whatever the commission agrees best serves the public’s interest. However, I am not comfortable
negotiating contractual items via email from BHS staff.
Questions for the commission:
1. Does commission have an opinion as to whether the library should adhere to best practices of
not digitally watermarking images even if it means BHS/MOB may not always get proper
attribution for historical photos?
52
2. Are any commissioners open to the idea of formally or privately sitting down with members of
the BHS/MOB board to discuss potential solutions?
City Council Retreat
The City Council Retreat was held the weekend of January 20 and 21. Friday evening was used to discuss
various board and commission letters to council. Council discussed if there were overlapping concerns
among letters. There were some, much of it having to do with affordability of housing, land use, and
transportation. Council did discuss these items in relation to the scheduled workplan. No new major
items were added to the workplan. There was a strong push from some members of council to consider
having a Housing Board as a new board/commission in 2017/2018.
On Saturday, council mostly discussed their process. They made a strong commitment to better control
the open comment section of commission meetings and not schedule any agenda items for regular
meetings past 10:30 p.m. Some other process changes were suggested to shorten the length of council
meetings.
Applications for boards and commissions
The deadline for applications for boards and commissions is Feb. 13. If you know people who may be
interested, please encourage them to apply.
Some good news, some sad news
I am super pleased to announce that Antonia Gaona, public services manager, has given birth to her
second child and will be on leave for the next few months. I am incredibly sad to announce that Eileen
McCluskey, community engagement and enrichment manager, has resigned to take a job in her
hometown of Fort Collins. Eileen has been with us for the past 2 ½ years and did outstanding work for
Boulder Public Library from taking the lead on 1 of our 2 major reorganizations, bringing a whole new
team [programs, outreach & events] on board and getting them up to speed, managing greater
centralization of collection development, improved statistical reporting, not to mention writing a few of
the policies that you approved last year. We will sorely miss her hard work, dedication, ingenuity and
humor. The advertisement for her replacement has already been posted and we hope to find a great
new manager to add to the library team. Just for some perspective, this is 1/3rd of our entire leadership
team. Their collective span of control encompasses probably 4/5ths of all staff; all public service
employees at Main Library and the branches, collection development, Carnegie, programs & outreach,
youth services and BoulderReads. More or less all staff with the exception of IT, access services, and
administration. In the interim, Jennifer and I have divided Antonia and Eileen’s direct reports. Jennifer
picks up an additional 6 new direct reports and I have picked up 5. I do not anticipate that this will
necessarily slow us down, but it will require a re-focus of some of our allocated time and at least
temporarily impact our responsiveness. I hope that you will understand.
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