LibGuides: Directors Do It All: Facilities

Minimum Standard #8

21st century library services aren't limited to what our physical spaces can hold - we offer ebooks, virtual programming, and more! But running the library means making sure the building you do have can support the organization's in-person services, from programming to internet access and beyond.

Minimum Standard #8 requires that a library "...maintains a facility that addresses community needs, as outlined in the library’s long-range plan of service, including adequate space, lighting, shelving, seating, power and data infrastructure, and a public restroom."

Accessibility

Prioritizing accessibility in your library will ensure that all patrons will be able to enjoy what the library has to offer. Check out the following accessibility resources:

Americans with Disabilities Act
The Association of Specialized, Government and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASGCLA) policy: Library Services for People with Disabilities .
Equal Access: Universal Design in Libraries: A checklist for helping make libraries more welcoming, accessible and usable
The Institute for Human Centered Design is dedicated to enhancing the experiences of people of all ages and abilities through excellence in design.
Access Advocates: 12 Basic Requirements for ADA Compliance at the Library

Maintenance

You'll want to find out who is responsible for taking care of the building and grounds, including repairs, lawn care, and snow removal. Depending on your situation, it may be the municipality, a third party, library staff, or a combination of the three.

Additional Resources

From Public Libraries Online: Make Your Library ADA-Friendly, Not Just ADA Compliant (6/21)

Check out more resources on facilities planning from WebJunction.

Sample Policies

Professional Reading

The Green Library Planner by Mary M. Carr
ISBN: 9780810887367
Publication Date: 2013-09-11
Green buildings are better buildings. In fact, buildings use 36% of the energy in the United States, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, so green buildings that use less energy help to address the very real challenges of reliance on fossil fuel and climate change. More than only being environmentally responsible, green libraries are beautiful, cost-effective, high-performance buildings that enhance occupant health and comfort. This book is designed for members of library building design teams who typically are not actively engaged in architecture, construction, or engineering, but who need an introduction to the rationale for green buildings, the elements of green building, and the language of the field. It will be equally useful for public officials, boards, or administrators who are considering a new green library building, a renovated library structure, or sustainable elements for a current library facility.
How Green Is My Library? by Sam McBane Mulford; Ned A. Himmel
ISBN: 9781591587804
Publication Date: 2009-12-22
While there is a broad spectrum of ecological sophistication within libraries nationwide and some regions are at the forefront of sustainable of sustainable design and operations, others are just beginning or have yet to integrate materials recycling into their daily practice. A few jurisdictions are mandating LEED certified buildings and carbon-neutral practices, while others do not yet have these concepts on their radars. This resource will provide novice to intermediate ecological sophisticates with tools to evaluate the greenness of their existing or planned facilities and operations.
Planning Our Future Libraries by Kim Leeder (Editor); Eric Frierson (Editor)
ISBN: 9780838912072
Publication Date: 2013-11-12
In an information environment where the only constant is change, many wonder where libraries are headed. This edited collection brings together library leaders with some of the brightest new minds in the profession to envision the future of libraries. Drawing from their personal experiences, they bring their barrier-breaking perspectives to the task of reinventing the library in all its forms.
Public Library Buildings by Lisa Charbonnet
ISBN: 9781440838583
Publication Date: 2015-10-05
This go-to guide covers the entire process of building or renovating a public library--from initial planning, to maintaining the completed space, to measuring success. Provides you with an informal, easy-to-read, practical guide that addresses the specific needs of public librarians looking to reimagine their library space. Takes a holistic approach that covers every step from initial vision to evaluating success. Offers practical, nuts-and-bolts advice from an experienced veteran of the process. Helps you to claim a seat at the table--and shows you why the input of librarians is so important.