The Teton County Library

Elizabeth Kingwill commented on 10/21  at  07:02 PM

• I would like the area designated for smokers to be planned away from the walk patrons must use to enter the facility. The 20 foot rule in the case of the library entrance does not address the reason for the rule, that people sensitive to smoke are not required to walk through it to get to said entrance! Thank you.

John commented on 10/23  at  10:58 AM

• Please fix the entrance—it gets too icy in winter which is scary for seniors trying to get to the library.  It needs to be better lit too.

Steve commented on 10/28  at  04:39 PM

• Steve came to do some plumbing work at my house and I solicited his comments on the library expansion!  He doesn’t like the look of the spiderweb of wires that hang all over the place in the main part of the Library.  Would like to see a different design incorporated into the expansion and remodel.  (Dimmie on behlaf of Steve the plumber)

lynne commented on 10/28  at  08:28 PM

• I agree with the smell of smoke as we enter and exit the Library.
  It seems to be a place for loitering.  It worries me to see children walking into the Library alone. Is there anything you can do to make the outside entry a nontoxic and secure place to be?

lynne commented on 10/28  at  08:59 PM

• Something that I think would be a good addition to our Library, is a drive through book drop.  For bad weather days and days when we’re in a hurry.  It would also be great for parents with little ones in car seats to be able to stay in their car instead of having to get them out just to drop a few books off.

Juli commented on 10/29  at  10:29 AM

• Way to go TCL!!!  Today’s patrons are as likely to check out a DVD as a book.  A library is no longer a place whose sole function is to lend books.  Today’s libraries are also community centers, opening their doors and resources to a diverse clientele with a variety of tastes and needs.  Busy, sometimes even noisy, they offer FREE movies, workshops, art classes, and concerts. With their special programs, they can be a haven for families on a tight budget in tough economic times. More of the same for the future please.

Marnie commented on 10/30  at  11:54 AM

• I agree with Lynne…Drive up window for returns and picking up reserves…. good for parents of really little ones, seniors, and folks with disabilities.

Bland Hoke commented on 11/02  at  10:15 AM

• I attended the mind breaking presentation. I wanted to reiterate that public art projects lend to making libraries creative, interesting, and unique places to think and study. Public art is much more than murals and can be: circular book shelves, innovative seating, inspiring entrances and think tank spaces, creative carpeting, wall tattoos, and progressive technological artwork. At the end of the day a library can be inspiring, or it could be as dull as a parking garage.

  Please consider incorporating what 350 other communities mandate, and set aside at least 1% of the construction budget for public art enhancements!

Lynda B commented on 11/05  at  01:43 PM

• I find it strange that my appointed time was canceled b/c I was 10 min. late…I was not made aware of this at the time I made the appt.

From paper comment form commented on 11/06  at  10:41 AM

• More space and facilities for eating and drinking coffee.  Eliminate food in the library area.  Provide cleaning for desks, tables, etc.  Move smoking farther away.  More covered bike rack parking.

From paper comment form commented on 11/06  at  11:00 AM

• Good idea to have ongoing used book sales with coffee bar/cafe.

claire commented on 11/06  at  01:27 PM

• cafe

From paper comment form commented on 11/06  at  04:14 PM

• You all do such a great job.  I feel so fortunate to have such an amazing resource in my community.  Thank you!

From paper comment form commented on 11/06  at  05:27 PM

• Love the idea of a drive-up drop off, including a place for CDs/DVDs - this would be so helpful for those of us with young children so we didn’t have to get them out of the car seat just to make a return.

From paper comment form commented on 11/06  at  05:44 PM

• Meeting rooms - Would be great if they were sound proofed with 2 built-in large white boards.  The glass walls in the current rooms are too big and the view from them is distracting.  Would be better with smaller windows in regular walls.

Margot B commented on 11/06  at  06:01 PM

• I love the Teton County Library!  Granted - I’m a “bookworm”!  But the Library was one of the key reasons why my husband and I decided to move to Jackson Hole over 2 years ago.  The Library is exceedingly well-run.  The staff is well-chosen: informed, attentive, welcoming and always ready to go the extra mile.  What a pleasure!

Margot B commented on 11/06  at  06:06 PM

• An organic community garden would bring people of all ages and genders in our community together to learn about being self-sustaining and better stewards of the earth.  They would contribute the seeds, the labor and tools, and would get to take something edible home in late summer, hopefully!

  Some ideas for improvement:
  -Ventilation needs improvement
  -The courtesy phone could be placed in an area more visible to staff because there are those who abuse the privilege (and they’re often adults!).
  -It would be great if there could be 2 more Community Boards by the bathrooms: One on the wall opposite (by the men’s room) and one by the opposite wall by the women’s room - one just for “Services” and one just for “Rentals & Sales.“  The big one now used could then just be for events and general info.
  -A 2-story parking might be a good idea considering the community’s future growth.

Isabel, Assistant Library Director commented on 11/06  at  06:14 PM

• Margot - Thank you for all of your ideas and the beautiful rendering/floor plan you drew for us to help jumpstart ideas for our expansion and renovation!

Jim commented on 11/07  at  07:22 AM

• The entrance is an issue.  People are frequently waiting for rides (kids after school, children for a bus to pick them up after a program, people without cars…)  It is impossible to be indoors and see what’s going on outside.  From a security standpoint, this can be an issue too.  Staff rarely have a clear view of what is going on outside the entrance of the building or even in the lobby now that there is a book shelf covering the only window with a (somewhat) view of the entrance.

  The entrance is dark, and not inviting.  The window that used to let light into the entrance is now covered with a holds bookshelf.  The wall with the words has letters missing, and nobody can read that thing.  It’s too huge, and too much.  I’ve been in and out of that entrance many times and I can’t tell you one single thing that wall says.  The tv screen with library information is helpful as you enter the building.  Perhaps the entrance to the library needs to be in a different place, and this space could be used for something different? 

  Many people complain about people violating the outdoor smoking policy.  Perhaps if these people near the entrance were in full view of staff, or other patrons inside the building, they might self monitor.  The covered waiting space outside is a nice addition to the current entrance but perhaps this space needs to be better defined by being at a different level.  It might be easier to enforce a No Smoking policy, and provide a nicer outdoor space if there was NO SMOKING on the “DECK”, instead of trying to imagine an imaginary line a certain number of feet away from the entrance.  (Especially if other patrons are using this space to work/wait for a ride.)  So, well defined outdoor/quiet/active/waiting spaces might be helpful. 

  Jackson has lots of awesome/favorite outdoor hangout spaces as examples.  The decks at the Snake River Brew Pub are hugely popular….decks with picnic tables, and a view of Snow King…that’s all it is.  Same with Dornans in Moose, sort or restaurant style outdoor space, but for laptops/readers.

Glenn commented on 11/07  at  12:02 PM

• The children’s area need to be larger and incorporate some space for kids to be kids.

Betty commented on 11/07  at  12:11 PM

• Reading some of the comments makes me want to say that I like the idea of an enclosed outdoor space/sunroom for reading.

From paper comment form commented on 11/09  at  11:52 AM

• Could use more space - big rooms for presentations.  Coffee shop would be great.

From paper comment form commented on 11/09  at  12:05 PM

• I would like to see the whole new structure be 125% energy efficient. Our location in Jackson and our already influence on so many visitors could be very influential as to the future of our country.  (Geothermal energy, electricity generating roof, electricity generating windows)

From paper comment form commented on 11/09  at  12:07 PM

• Child size bathroom facilities - not necessarily toilets, but a shorter sink would be great!

From paper comment form commented on 11/09  at  12:12 PM

• All employees should get a raise.  A clock should be put by the front door so people without a watch or a cell phone can tell how long they have to wait for the library to open.  A cafe might be cool with more coffee options.  Kevin especially should get a raise.  Marisa should wear a name tag that says “President of the Library.“  Some library employees should tour other resort town libraries or mountain town libraries and observe what they are doing that is excellent and innovative and borrow the ideas for our library.  Telluride, CO especially has a good library.  This library is wonderful - Kudos!!

from senior center comments 11/09 commented on 11/09  at  04:07 PM

• Ice at the entrance keeps seniors away—it’s just too dangerous for us.

  We LOVE the no-cell phone zone in the library

  Booksales are Nice

  Keep the tax forms and the tax assistance program for low income people!

From paper comment form commented on 11/09  at  04:43 PM

• We need a cafe!!

From paper comment form commented on 11/09  at  04:56 PM

• -A more modern looking library
  -Nice lighting
  -Possibly cafe!
  -Fireplace
  -Upstairs!?
  -More windows

From paper comment form commented on 11/09  at  05:01 PM

• Carry on - I trust your expertise.

Bob M commented on 11/09  at  05:36 PM

• The current exhibit space is dysfunctional—it’s more of a hallway.  There needs to be a real exhibit space.

terri commented on 11/09  at  06:38 PM

• - Another large meeting space
  - Drive thru book drop off
  - More visible place to hang flyers

Senior Center Input Session commented on 11/09  at  09:50 PM

• Need to add more space for children’s area.  It would be good to have a bigger area for them for the play area after Storytimes.

Senior Center Input Session commented on 11/09  at  09:52 PM

• I like the ongoing book sale in the lobby.  It seems to get used a lot, but it needs better lighting.

Senior Center Input Session commented on 11/10  at  12:47 PM

• Please improve the parking situation.  It’s hard to get through the incoming & outgoing cars to the entrance.

Senior Center Input Session commented on 11/10  at  12:49 PM

• I would like longer open hours for the library, mainly on weekends.  I wish the library was open on Friday nights.

Senior Center Input Session commented on 11/10  at  12:50 PM

• Can the library use more solar panels to support the increased power usage of the addition?

Senior Center Input Session commented on 11/10  at  12:51 PM

• Put more chairs near the Front Desk for people who are waiting to check out books.

Senior Center Input Session commented on 11/10  at  12:53 PM

• I think it’s great that the library is a place for so many different kinds of folks.

Mark commented on 11/10  at  01:16 PM

• I would like to see the library consider adding an indoor waterfall. They are not only visually and aurally pleasing and relaxing, they are natural white noise generators. What that does is help acoustically cancel out other noise in the area such as voices and the clicking of computer keyboards. The waterfall itself would not have to be very loud. It would be nice for a quiet reading area.

sally commented on 11/10  at  08:10 PM

• Wow more space in the library—I trust the employees of the library to give us their best with the addition, do appreciate the chance to comment though.

Peter L commented on 11/11  at  06:48 AM

• Tell the architect to keep the addition in the same style as Bruder’s design.  Don’t add something that doesn’t match the style of the current building.  Pay attention to the elements Will valued, like asymmetry and openess.

Jim A. commented on 11/11  at  06:55 AM

• Bigger windows.

Public Forum 10/19/09 commented on 11/12  at  08:05 AM

• Comments from Public Forum 10/19/09 about Children’s Area
  -Computers and chairs for adults next to kid’s area with transparent wall so parents can see kids, but be separate
  -Children’s area with glass separating area from adult area
  -Craft room that can be used anytime – maybe kids can do crafts at times other than a staff-led activity
  -Like integration of craft area with library space so it’s multipurpose
  -Rubber floor in craft room
  -Rubber floor in youth area
  -Kids flexible program rooms are great.  Make them available for public groups to use.  Especially after school
  -Magical place of wonder
  -Rooms for discovery like science, crafts, activities, etc. for kids
  - Wii for kids?  Coordinate with Parks and Recreation
  -If game room, desk near it on outside to monitor and check in on
  -Bigger storytime space
  -Other ways of displaying collections
  -Walls to hang materials/self check out for youth department
  -Walls that allow us to easily hang things, especially in children’s and teen’s areas
  -“Record” style shelving- books face out
  -For space to be flexible it’s got to be able to change colors.  Bright paint and furniture is good; colored glass, floors are more permanent
  -Large bench for child and parent
  -Need space for parents/caregivers to read to children
  -Pillows and beanbags
  -Children’s nooks
  -Spaces like grandmother’s attic to entice kids away from computers – i.e.-window seats
  -Listening pods nice!
  -Kids love rubber floors and kid sized tables – face out books
  -Child proportional entry is excellent
  -Creative unique door to kids area is great
  -Big bold kids art
  -Wall tattoos are cool
  -Fun graphics for walls
  -More open space
  -Room for movement with kids.  Room decent size to accommodate 50
  -Cute kids furniture outside
  -Safe children’s outdoor space = great
  -Need an outdoor play space

Public Forum 10/19/09 commented on 11/12  at  08:07 AM

• Comments from Public Forum 10/19/2009 about Entrance
  -Heated sidewalk/heat tape on roof
  -Entrance icy in winter
  -Colored glass nice if functional. Fun entryways
  -Like entry with local art
  -Community retail coffee shot
  -More lights, easy access
  -No TVs in main area
  -Better lighting at entrance so fliers, etc. can be read without squinting
  -Public bus drop at the actual entrance.
  -Yea for a drive up window.  Post event flyers on the side
  -Drive up book drop – reduce parking needs
  -Seniors/all age groups – easy to get around carts near entry
  -Smoking area away from entrance!
  -Need a smoking area away from main entrance
  -Design to deter smokers

Public Forum 10/19/09 commented on 11/12  at  08:08 AM

• Comments from Public Forum 10/19/2009 about Outdoor Features
  -The porch movement is great.  We have wonderful southern exposure
  -Take advantage of great green space on south side of library for more outdoor space
  -TCL needs clear, safe auto/bus drop off
  -Encourage park-like outdoor space i.e. play space, plantings, seating
  -Need an outdoor play space
  -Outdoor landscape perfect for Jackson
  -You should put flowers
  -Like recycled materials inside and out
  -More and better bike parking
  -More obvious street presence
  -Parking is a real problem, not likely to improve.  Can we make remote parking/town shuttle work?

Public Forum 10/19/09 commented on 11/12  at  08:09 AM

• Comments from Public Forum 10/19/2009 about Sustainability/LEED
  -LEED Education panes onsite if building is certified
  -LEED – as long as it doesn’t cost more
  -LEED platinum level is a great goal
  -LEED silver minimum
  -The LEED will make the building more comfortable. Lighting, heat, water usage
  -Motion sensors – yes – and LEED
  -Educate library users to energy use and savings
  -Natural light; use more day lighting
  -Green roof – outdoor pill out space
  -Celebrate roof run-off (sculpture in the landscape, etc.)
  -Green technologies – eg: low flow toilets
  -Low flow dual flush toilets
  -Composting toilets

Public Forum 10/19/09 commented on 11/12  at  08:10 AM

• Comments from Public Forum 10/19/09 about Art
  -Art in furnishings – a real plus
  -Local and national artists could make creative: furniture, shelving, ceilings, desks
  -How big of a role could public art play in promoting a creative and interesting environment?
  -Who designs wall tattoos? Engage local artists if possible
  -Like walls where posters can be put or fun graphics/wall art
  -Utilize and sustain our creative culture in the construction and design of interesting elements
  -Quotes and inspiring words (“wall tattoos”)
  -Like color and wall tattoos – or local art
  -Local connection – materials. Art, colors.

Public Forum 10/19/09 commented on 11/12  at  08:11 AM

• Comments from Public Forum 10/19/09 about Safety
  -Lower bookshelves
  -Glass walls – colored glass?
  -Rubber Flooring – Excellent.  See J.H. Senior Meals
  -Shelving – light deterioration
  -I don’t want to inadvertently observe someone’s porn site.  Protect me please.
  -Sight lines that manage space with few staff
  -Video cams of people coming in library
  -Adult computers can look onto kids computers
  -Monitor web sites viewed
  -Block pornographic web sites
  -Security imperative with some transient population
  -Safety – like staff space with windows thru to public all open and viewable
  -Open shelves for good visibility

Public Forum 10/19/09 commented on 11/12  at  08:12 AM

• Comments from Public Forum on 10/19/09 about Other Building Features
  -Lots of windows
  -Like creative windows – high, low, corner
  -Love windows on floor so you can see out when you sit
  -Like windows as walls
  -Interior glass is good – colored glace nice too
  -Integrate kids and seniors
  -Multi-purpose use rooms
  -Comfy chairs and collaborative spaces
  -Like furniture within stacks/shelving
  -Circular room cool but make sure not lots of wasted space
  -Walls that allow us to easily hang things, especially in children’s and teen’s areas
  -Disperse coat hooks throughout the facility
  -Maintain key “real estate” for donor recognition
  -Like multi colored signage on the floor
  -Love floor signage
  -Creative signage
  -A place you can get lost in (part of it and by design)
  -Two levels?
  -Configuration of building needs to demonstrate the concept of being open and welcoming for all

From paper comment form commented on 11/12  at  08:27 AM

• Keep up great work.

From paper comment form commented on 11/12  at  08:32 AM

• Larger reading area for kids.  Lifelong love of books comes from parent/kid reading programs (which you have) but need more room for them. 

  Have cozy places to read by fire in winter.

  Do something about having to walk by smokers to get in.  Separate them off more.

From paper comment form commented on 11/12  at  08:40 AM

• -Dedicated area for book sale prep
  -Dedicated area for Friends of Library needs
  -Larger hospitality area and prep area

From paper comment form commented on 11/12  at  08:43 AM

• I love our library and was surprised (but pleased) to learn of the possible expansion.  I am proud of the way this library is layed out, managed, stocked and designed.  Build up (more fun, more light).

From paper comment form commented on 11/12  at  08:47 AM

• Hope that Jackson is going to expand the library.  Hope they do it in a way that is not too disruptive to concurrent usage.  There are few (if any) better usage of taxpayer monies than for libraries/lib. expansions.  Please Do It!

Berte Hirschfield commented on 11/12  at  01:53 PM

• The library and its outreach are wonderful.
  I think the kids story time room should be larger.  When I’m there it’s full up, a good thing, but lots of runny noses and coughing and no space to move further away.  Suggest a visit to the Salt Lake City Library.  Their children’s area abuts an outside enclosed space where kids can let off steam.  There are also some indoor play areas.  Really appealing for our cold winter days.
  The conference/meeting rooms are much appreciated.  Another one a bit larger would be welcome.

Carrie Geraci commented on 11/12  at  02:40 PM

• I hope the library takes this opportunity to incorporate art in public spaces from the beginning of the planning process. Any new elements from seating to flooring can be opportunities to add creativity and inspiration to the library.

  I would also like to see a larger, more interactive space for rotating exhibitions and a discovery area for children outside would be exciting.

  I am so very thankful for this amazing community resource. We are very lucky to have a library with such high standards and commitment to the public.
  Thank you.

Carol Bowers commented on 11/12  at  04:49 PM

• I would appreciate more group meeting space. It has been more and more difficult to use the meeting space for non-profits as it is always booked.

Terry Trauner commented on 11/12  at  04:58 PM

• I would like to see a book drop off accessible from the car. 

  Also, creating a teen study area that has sofas and chairs that are set-up like a living room.  This could create a more homey and welcoming atmosphere and encourage kids to congregate at the library for studying. 

  I would also like to see the use of more natural light utilizing innovative windows. 

  Of course there are some libraries, such as the library in SLC, which through it’s architectural design it has become a landmark tourists put on their “must see” list.  Utilizing architectural talent I think we could achieve the same excitement, however, on a smaller scale.

  Having a designated smoking area would be nice, always a bummer when you walk up to the library and inhale someone’s second hand smoke!

  Good Luck,

  Terry

Joan and David Goldfarb commented on 11/12  at  06:48 PM

• The auditorium could be larger as well as the number of meeting rooms. Perhaps one meeting room could be large enough to hold about 20-30 people for meeting that the present meeting rooms cannot hold and too small for the auditorium.
  Love the library and one of the busiest places in town. Good job!!

Allison commented on 11/12  at  09:38 PM

• I love the library and I love that you are expanding!  More work areas for people with their own computers.  Kids area where they can be noisy without bothering other patrons. Headphones or sound proof room for patrons that want absolute quiet. Sunroom was a great idea.  Community garden would be fabulous, really make the library a place with heart! Cafe would be great too so that mom’s didn’t have to leave the library to feed the kids.

From paper comment form commented on 11/13  at  08:24 AM

• I really appreciate Interlibrary Loan.

From paper comment form commented on 11/13  at  08:24 AM

• Website is a great asset.

From paper comment form commented on 11/13  at  08:26 AM

• Storage for materials for youth programs needs to be easy to access.  I’ve helped with library programs and this is an issue, especially the youth programs.

From paper comment form commented on 11/13  at  08:30 AM

• Larger ongoing book sale
  Expanding earlier hours
  Expand computer classes

From paper comment form commented on 11/13  at  08:38 AM

• More space between book aisles.

From paper comment form commented on 11/13  at  08:41 AM

• -Have a cafe with food!
  -Different bookshelves
  -Better seating

From paper comment form commented on 11/13  at  08:56 AM

• Good to have enough space for kids.  I’d use a quiet study space if we had one.

Jessica Yeomans commented on 11/13  at  12:51 PM

• No smoking campus!

  Healthy reading minds need healthy breathing! 

  Also, a place for the kids to be able to make some good noise without getting the death look.  Sound proof?

  Lots of natural light is a plus!

From paper comment form commented on 11/14  at  09:01 AM

• -Need more Spanish speaking staff on the desks
  -Need the bus to drop off kids at the library entrance. Parents don’t feel safe when their kids get off a block away and have to walk by the library yard at night when it’s dark.
  -YS space: need more games for kids to play while parents can read. Crayons to draw with, coloring, stuffed animal toys for small kids.

Renee Glick commented on 11/14  at  02:15 PM

• I totally agree with the other comments: the icy entry needs adjusting, the smokers…you have to walk right through them AND their smoke comes right into the bulding. 
  Also, the younger-reader area needs to be a bit more seperate from teh adult readers…..because sometimes, and not often, but an adult wants to hang out near the teens or smaller kids for the WRONG reasons.  Very disturbing. 
  Also, maybe a computer that yo ucan touch.or scroll through right when you enter to show ONLY the events of the library for that particular month.  ....something that is IN YOUR FACE

  ...and I agree with the group meeting space…it should get larger.  I go to the geogolists meetings…and have been to a few others of varying topics, and the space fills too quickly. 

  The childrens reading room also could use an eexpansion.! Story time does get squishy….

  How EXCITING!

from paper comment commented on 11/15  at  06:23 PM

• Get rid of unsightly yard - pave over it!
  Parking: Need circular thing to drop off, pick people up and wait for people.
  Ice from parking lot - almost need a canopy from parking lot to building (senior people) afraid to go the library in the winter due to icy parking lot.
  Turn unsightly yard into parking.

from paper comment commented on 11/15  at  06:23 PM

• Do we have figures on ages of users? Aging populations?

from paper comment commented on 11/15  at  06:25 PM

• Ice at entrance keeps people away. 
  Love the no cell phone idea. 
  Booksales are nice.
  Keep the tax forms and the VITA program.

from paper comment commented on 11/15  at  06:28 PM

• The decision to have the new library designed by Will Brutal (whatever his name is), an ironic postmodernist who believes that people should cover apologetically in unwelcoming spaces adorned with rusty scrap metal, marks a deliberate break with the past. No more cozy log cabin, no more swan door, and eventually (I fear) no more books.  In the last 35 years I have gratefully borrowed several thousand books and thought of the library as one of the centers of my life in Jackson.  But I no longer feel at home in the new library, and come less and less frequently.  They only change I would like to see is on I know you can not make: a return to the old library, a small cozy cabin with nothing in it but books.

from paper comment commented on 11/15  at  06:28 PM

• I think this is a fabulous library.

from paper comment commented on 11/15  at  06:30 PM

• What about starting a teen-led Global Connections Club (not unlike IC-21) that focuses on studying and generating solutions to address global problems: i.e. population v.s resource depletion; growth based economy etc.  These are the real matters for which our teens will need to prepare.

from paper comment commented on 11/15  at  06:31 PM

• Use all that wasted ceiling space.

Tracy commented on 11/16  at  11:26 AM

• I agree that smoking should not be allowed near the library entrance.  It should be a nonsmoking campus actually, just like St. John’s church.

  Also, I would like to see increased hours.  I think it is a real loss that the library closes at 5:30 on Friday nights.  It would be nice if it were open until 8 p.m.  People need more time at the library and less time partying or trying to find a nice, quiet, free place to hang out.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  12:07 PM

• A food with all your favorite snacks, drinks and restaurants.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  12:09 PM

• -Better space for staff. (I’m a Friend of the Library and see the close quarters they work in.)
  -Coffee bar
  -On-going booksale
  -Bring back the paperback booksale
  -More room for the Library Foundation and Friends

Senior Center Session Input commented on 11/16  at  12:12 PM

• -Don’t need a bigger library - can’t see taxpayers paying for this.
  -Never any parking
  -In the summer, they let the weeds grow; weeds are horrendous
  -Need more parking for seniors and less for disabled
  -At the library everyone is so nice and helpful
  -Need more people on public desks to help

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  12:13 PM

• I’d like to see extended hours.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  12:14 PM

• This library is GREAT!  I love the programs available.  Maybe move the children’s area so there is more quietness in the adult spaces.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  12:16 PM

• Please solicit donations for more DVDs.  Some are excellent - PBS documentaries, National Geographic, Ken Burns, etc.  Reapportion funds away from the Spanish programs and reallocate to English books, DVDs, reference materials, etc.  Please remember those taxpaying citizens that support the library.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  12:20 PM

• Please don’t mess with the architecture style.  It is really nice, especially the back wall facing Snow King.  It makes that room so pleasant.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  12:22 PM

• Don’t change the character of the building!  Hire Will Bruder.  Don’t like the entrance - too dark.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  12:26 PM

• More organization of community board - categories don’t match needs well.  More space for community board or separate smaller boards might work.  Make clear the policy for clearing it off.

Kristen commented on 11/16  at  12:28 PM

• -I want bean bags.
  -I want a bigger children’s area.
  -I want a quieet student living room.
  -I want a two story library.
  -A chair with a computer in it.
  -Big windows
  -9 TVs
  -A garden in the front
  -A cafe
  -A bigger parking lot

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  01:23 PM

• The library does a pretty good job!  Maybe have a cafe with hot tea, coffee and tea in the winter and smoothies in the summer.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  01:51 PM

• I enjoy the park/outdoor space in the back of the library.  I see the town getting denser and that we’re losing patches of nature in town. I like that there’s still a green enclave on the library property. 

  In order to preserve the park, please consider designing the addition to have a smaller footprint by adding a second story.  A second story would be a good place for a reading area since it would be more isolated from the comings and goings in the rest of the library.  You would have to consider the effects a second story would have on the library’s solar panels.

  An idea for a second story reading area -  If the 2nd story was cantilevered it could create an outside space below the overhang that would be a little protected for outdoor use.  Also, if the south facing glass wall in the reading area was tilted out a bit, it would encourage patrons to look down into the green space below and may also help deflect some of the glare of the sunlight. 

  Please retain the nature/character of the current library in the expansion.  It has a nice feel, attractive colors and interesting angles.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  01:58 PM

• We would love to be able to check out books in the children’s area.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  01:59 PM

• -Need door from kids area to outside
  -Need a changing table!!
  -Larger puzzle area
  -“Toy lending” day/area - puzzles/toys can be “checked out”

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  02:11 PM

• Could the smoking section outside be relocated?  Everyone approaching the building has to walk thru the haze of smoke.  Also would it be possible to open at 9AM, even for a few days a week?

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  02:20 PM

• We love the booksale.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  02:23 PM

• We really encourage art exhibits.

Armond commented on 11/16  at  03:03 PM

• Drive through window to drop off books would hopefully eliminate people double parking at the entrance just so they can drop off books.

From paper comment form commented on 11/16  at  05:14 PM

• The library needs more quiet space.  Perhaps partitions or some kind of divider would help.  At present it only takes one noisy person in any given area to compromise the noise level.

Susan C commented on 11/16  at  05:20 PM

• The sunlight and actual natural light are important parts of the library ambiance for me.  As are the view of the mountains to the south.  I’d hate to lose their contribution to our welcoming space.

Lokey commented on 11/16  at  06:49 PM

• To me the library is a warm and friendly community facility and I hope that it will remain so.

From paper comment form commented on 11/17  at  09:33 AM

• Library is fine.  Just keep it up.

From paper comment form commented on 11/17  at  09:41 AM

• A place to teach.

From paper comment form commented on 11/17  at  11:52 AM

• Keep the interior space cheerful and colorful, like it is now.  It creates a very nice feeling.  It also has a nice feeling of openness.  Thank you!

From paper comment form commented on 11/17  at  11:57 AM

• More meeting/study rooms.

From paper comment form commented on 11/17  at  04:32 PM

• I think it is very unfortunate the library terminated their exemplary Latino Outreach program.  In particular, I miss the bilingual and cross cultural adult programs.  In general, I see the elimination of this program as an erroneous loss for our whole community, anglos and latinos.

Beverly commented on 11/18  at  09:48 AM

• I don’t know what to say.  I want to leave it to people who want to promote the new uses for libraries.  I’d rather have us go back to a simpler library.

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  09:54 AM

• Don’t want to change.  Like it the way it is.

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  11:50 AM

• Please don’t close when you do the expansion!

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  11:52 AM

• Parking is ok - maybe a place to pull up to drop off books.

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  11:53 AM

• Focus outdoor spaces on kids.  This allows them to be loud.

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  11:57 AM

• Use local resources for the work.

Elena commented on 11/18  at  11:58 AM

• The front entrance is too dark.  Make it bigger, with more light.  It is very important!

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  12:03 PM

• Can you make a room available on a weekly basis - say one hour a week?  There are some 12-step programs that could make use of that.  They could even donate to the library.

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  12:08 PM

• Better reading lights, bigger better windows giving readers more access to sunlight, especially in the winter.  Need to have unlocked doors on the bus stop side.

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  12:13 PM

• Second story with escalators with TVs everywhere.

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  12:32 PM

• No tengo otras ideas.  La verdad esta muy bien organisada!!  Solo mas libros en espanol porfa!!

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  12:43 PM

• -I wish Interlibrary loans were free of charge.
  -I wish the library were open late (9 or 10 pm) on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

From email comment form commented on 11/18  at  12:54 PM

• The library is magnificent!

From email comment form commented on 11/18  at  12:56 PM

• If library use continues as it has in the last few years, we will need an extention probably by the time this renovation if over.  so, my deepest concern is have a design that will allow for further extention if nec.

From email comment form commented on 11/18  at  12:57 PM

• Hi Library,

  Well, I think you’re great already.  But a couple of suggestions.

  Is there some way that the adults could be protected from the noise of the kids?  It’s pretty annoying especially if you are reading newspapers or magazines.

  If possible, it would be very nice if there were an area for socializing, e.g. A café or comfortable seating area slightly apart from the quiet areas?  I think it would be great if Jacksonites had more opportunities to be integrated, socially.  Places where people could hangout.  I know the problem with vagrants and all but, hopefully this is not completely insoluble.

  I would like better lighting in the parking areas.

From email comment form commented on 11/18  at  01:07 PM

• Thanks for letting me comment.  I use the library frequently, mostly with my toddler son, but also for your grown up collection, as well.  I would recommend a couple things, simply from my personal perspective, as well as from speaking with other mom’s of kids of a similar age.  The board book collection is in need of expansion.  Otherwise, the children’s book selection is wonderful.  Also, there is no venue to bring small children in the afternoon anywhere in this community.  All toddler activities currently take place in the morning (both library toddler time and rec center toddler time).  I think an indoor play area would be a stretch for a library, but a place for little ones to go in the afternoons would be great.  I always feel like I am disrupting the kids trying to do after-school homework when I bring my toddler, full of energy, fresh from the afternoon nap, into the library.  Some sort of toddler learning environment would be amazing.  Some books, touch and feel, I’m sort of thinking something like the Wildlife Art Museum has for the kids.

  Thanks again for the chance to comment.  We have a great facility, and I look forward to it being even better!

Frances Tessler commented on 11/18  at  01:09 PM

• I am basically NOT a library user, but I think that the library is a very important part of the community.  When I have used it, all functions were well attended.  I leave it to those of you who presently administer as well as all my friends and relatives who use the facility to give important input about what is needed in the addition.

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  01:22 PM

• The library is Ho-Hum, just like any and every town USA.  The old library had character and was western in design - like people expect of Jackson.  Your modern architecture is awful for Jackson.  I miss the old library a lot!!  Please move the computers to a separate wing instead of right in the complete middle of the library where it now is.

From paper comment form commented on 11/18  at  01:29 PM

• Rather than have twice-annual book sales, have a “store” which is open a few days a week, staffed by volunteers, where books are sold all year long.  Maybe coffee is there rather than in lobby.

Ben Brettell commented on 11/18  at  04:34 PM

• I agree with the comments made about smoking.  I think a smoke-free campus would be ideal, but if that is not possible then at least having a designated smoking area away from the doors and walkways, which everyone uses.  The whole point of the 20 foot rule (as I see it) is so that those of us who choose not to smoke aren’t subject to its effects.  Having to walk through smoke to get inside, whether or not it is 20 feet away from the doors, undermines that principle.

Julia Heemstra commented on 11/18  at  05:36 PM

• Despite the library’s valiant efforts to protect the public from secondhand smoke exposure in the entrance way, it continues to be a problem.  I would suggest either establishing a smokefree campus policy or else designing a separate protected area, away from the entrance, for smokers to utilize.

Jeremy Besbris commented on 11/19  at  12:02 AM

• The most recent Surgeon General’s report on exposure to secondhand smoke(2006) concluded that their is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke. It would seem prudent that the redesign of the library take this into account and create an entrance to the building that protects everyone’s right to breath clean air. 

  Also, thank you very much for listening, reading and considering everyone’s comments. It is truly an emblematic exercise of the library to dedicate this much time to soliciting the public’s opinion. Well done.

From Middle School commented on 11/19  at  08:23 AM

• It would be pretty cool architecture if it could be two stories.

From Middle School commented on 11/19  at  10:26 AM

• Signs that say No Smoking Outside or Anywhere.

From Middle School commented on 11/19  at  10:56 AM

• Make it like Denver library.

Max commented on 11/19  at  11:02 AM

• I think incorporating/maintaining open space is very important. Maybe some of the space could allow for community gardens?

From Middle School commented on 11/19  at  11:27 AM

• I think there should be a stand that sells magazines.  I also think there should be a little doughnut and coffee stand!  Many people would buy.

From Middle School commented on 11/19  at  05:14 PM

• -Fire place - wood burner
  -Animal mounts - deer, elk
  -Coffee Shop
  -Game area

From Middle School commented on 11/19  at  06:41 PM

• Music area with instruments.

From Middle School commented on 11/19  at  06:42 PM

• Maybe a little book store area to buy books and a room with low shelfs and cool styled shelves and lighting, comfortable chairs and tables to study.

From paper comment form commented on 11/21  at  08:50 PM

• Meeting room with 150+ seating.  People were turned away from recent Geologists of JH lectures.

From High School commented on 11/21  at  08:52 PM

• Maybe the land near the library on both sides, like where the teepee is.  And where those trailers used to be.  Maybe add on to the library and put it in that space.  Then add the teen center to one of those areas.

From ELL class commented on 11/21  at  08:53 PM

• Overall, we feel very welcome at the library and appreciate the resources and staff!

From High School commented on 11/21  at  08:54 PM

• -Tree house
  -Stuffed animals
  -A LOT of desk space

JHHS commented on 11/22  at  08:27 PM

• Ball pit!  Fire place!

JHHS commented on 11/22  at  08:28 PM

• Have a gaming area that has XBox 360 and PS3 and other games.

JHHS commented on 11/22  at  08:29 PM

• adventures/sports

JHHS commented on 11/22  at  08:29 PM

• War books/ fiction/non-fiction

JHHS commented on 11/22  at  08:41 PM

• I love the TCLib.

paper comment commented on 11/22  at  08:44 PM

• How will the Library architects plan to integrate public artists in the design phase of the project? Please consider the difference between a sculpture that is plopped on a corner and hiring a public artist to bring value to the project in a way which is integral to the building and the community.  What details, sites or issues could be outsourced and addressed by public art?  An entryway which ‘embrace’ the community, a fun and interesting teen area, donor wall predicament….consider what problems could be addressed by a creative professional.

Betsy commented on 11/22  at  08:47 PM

• An area not mentioned as a priority in the Master Plan, which I think deserves immediate attention is staff work areas.  Across the library, staff work areas are overcrowded.  Even supervisors are confined to the tiniest spaces.  I’ve noticed one office where two inhabitants can barely get out of their desks.  Beyond individual work spaces, the Circulation work room should be updated with state-of-the-art conveyor belts and any sort of equipment to save workers’ backs, hands, arms, etc. The Friends, who were once ensconced in a large room in the Tech services area, now have almost no work space to accomplish their vital volunteer tasks.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:50 PM

• movies, dry erase boards, storytime, chalk board computer games, art, painting pictures,reading, yoga, Wii, sitting on bean bags.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:50 PM

• good lighting and low shelves and cupboards for kids area.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:51 PM

• Lower book shelves, a lot of light, drive up drop off, more movies, CD stories, having a resource when you have no money for care.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:52 PM

• Outdoors is not welcome to children.  Door is locked often.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:53 PM

• Fairy tales about Tinker Bell, Snow White and Sleeping Beauty.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:53 PM

• Little babies area.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:54 PM

• Video monitors are o.k. if the building is going to be large, helps give direction.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:54 PM

• Need drive by book return.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:54 PM

• Color of wall - bold colors.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:55 PM

• Open windows in auditorium style entry is welcome.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:56 PM

• I don’t enjoy a commercial setting.  I want my library to be less like shopping.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:56 PM

• No modern chairs. I do not care for such innovations - more conventional.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:56 PM

• Some kind of coffee shop.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:57 PM

• Lots of individual small spaces.
  Drive-up book drop.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:58 PM

• I love the back side/out side - mostly natural space.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  08:59 PM

• Lots of interesting windows. I love the semi-modern style with a bit of rustic feeling.

Climb commented on 11/22  at  09:00 PM

• I do not like the idea of making it look like industrial and/or commercial.

Betsy Bernfeld commented on 11/23  at  09:12 AM

• I have heard some people express surprise that the Library “already” needs to be expanded, but the surprising thing to me is that the “new” library is already more than thirteen years old.  The original plan for the building was that it would adequately serve the community for twenty years—but that included an addition during that period.  Of course, no one predicted just how heavily utilized, appreciated, and needed this Library would be. 

  In my opinion, the two most pressing needs today insofar as space are for a young adult area and a computer center.  The present young adult area was something of an afterthought in the design of the facility, and it has never been adequate—especially in light of the ambitious and successful young adult programming the Library has undertaken.  The kids need more space for reading, studying, using computers, hanging out and chatting with each other.  The area needs to be somewhat isolated because it’s bound to be a little noisy, and having their own space would undoubtedly increase comfort, security, and usage by young adults. 

  The present computer area is one of the most heavily used areas of the Library.  I think it is unfortunate that it is located in the very exposed,  central open core of the building.  The space and the furnishings are not conducive to the efficient configuration of machines,  and its central location contributes greatly to an atmosphere of commotion in the Library.  People have to pass through the area to reach most of the collections and study areas, and its presence has overshadowed and possibly discouraged the professional reference service also available at the Information Desk.  I think an actual Computer Center—designed to accommodate many computers, out of the mainstream traffic, where noise and commotion are expected, where classes can be efficiently taught—is what’s urgently called for.

  An area not mentioned as a priority in the Master Plan, which I think deserves immediate attention, is staff work areas.  Across the Library, staff work areas are overcrowded.  Even supervisors are confined to the tiniest spaces.  I’ve noticed one office where two inhabitants can barely get out of their desks.  Beyond individual work spaces, the Circulation work room should be updated with state-of-the-art conveyer belts and any sort of equipment to save workers’ backs, hands, arms, etc.  The Friends, who were once ensconced in a large room in the Tech Services area, now have almost no work space to accomplish their vital volunteer tasks. 

  I realize the Library is out of space for collections, and quiet study areas are very limited.  Both of these needs are serious and should be addressed in planning the addition.  I have no specific recommendations beyond—please, much more of both!