October 18, 2005
New Branches
I decided that what I really needed for this paper was some inspiration, so I took a little tour of two of the newest branches of the San Jose Public Library System. The Branch Library Bond Measure, approved in November 2000, provides $212 million over ten years dedicated to the construction of six new and fourteen expanded branch libraries.
The Tully Community Branch Library opened on January 22, 2005 and serves a large and culturally diverse community in south San José. Its 24,300 square feet include a large community room, study rooms, a technology center, family place and Internet Café. (project details, floor plan) It is really one of the coolest libraries I have ever been in. Here are a few photos to give you a taste. They definitely take the idea of merchandising very seriously -- the displays are wonderful. There's a fireplace, lots of places to sit and read or work, group meeting areas, bright colors, great signage, lots of light and great art. The architects came and spoke to our class last week and talked about some of the decisions -- like having two entrances (so it connects to the ball fields) and the barn (to fit in with the historic use of the property).
The Vineland Branch Library (Blossom Hill) opened January 17, 2004 and serves a large and culturally diverse community in South San Jose. Its 24,000 square feet include a large community room, study rooms, technology center and café. (project details, floorplan) It's not quite as vivid as the Tully one, but still a very nice space and the cafe was great (plus, they are having their Spring book sale today) The reference desk was a bit hard to find though... luckily the staff wear name badges.
