Library Tour…the sequel
You know, once you’ve blog-toured 38 libraries, it’s a hard habit to break. I visited the Clifton Park-Halfmoon Library to learn about a health information initiative grant, and I couldn’t seem to help myself from taking pictures and investigating corners.
The building is imposing, and it is whispered about with jealousy amongst librarians. The strongest impression I took away from the tour is space, lots of wide-open, stretch your arms out and spin space, space you could fly a drone in (but shouldn’t!).
They went beyond book baskets to book shopping carts.
They had book baskets in the children’s room, though.
Their “cafe” is self-serve, but still nice, with tall tables for seating. It is right next to the circulation desk so that staff can keep an eye on it.
Lots of places for study, quiet contemplation. They have many meeting rooms, a gallery, a computer area, a teen area, a program room, and a copy/scan/fax room. The teen area was not a separate room, and seemed a little bland, even though they had fun furniture and a good selection.
The children’s room is self-contained on the second floor. I loved the large baby play area with a soft cushioned floor made to look like books (I didn’t get a good image of it because it was being used and I didn’t want to be creepy). I loved the path winding through the area, inviting people to enter, I loved the stylized chairs and the hanging ornaments. The metal sculptures were really cool- it was a shame they were fragile and were not supposed to be touched. I did notice a lot of “don’t touch” signs- understandable for an art installment, not as understandable for an Olaf doll.
I saw a really cool idea- many libraries make bookmarks recommending titles on different subjects, like award winners, books about trucks, books for fourth grade, etc.
This library made a little filing system for their bookmarks!
The entrance has a sculpture called “Beginnings” showing famous first lines on a pointed pillar. I wish it was more readable, I really like the idea of it.
This library is beautiful and inspiring.
