FAQ
Why does the Gunnison Library need to expand its physical space?
The library is unable to support the current demand for space. The library is consistently forced to host programs and events only when closed for general library use. Many children’s programming events are required to be held outside, or in effect close the library to general use during open hours. Staff are operating in inadequate, cramped conditions for all processing and administrative functions.
What would the Gunnison Library gain from having expanded space?
The library would be able to offer new programs and services as well as expand on existing programs and services. Additional space would allow for new, innovative programming for people of all ages and appealing to a wide variety of interests. Enlarging the library space would also provide physical space for private or community meetings, reading, working, studying, expanded collections, additional access to technology, and instruction spaces. Additionally, through design, an expanded library would allow for multiple functions to take place simultaneously while not disrupting more traditional library uses or the public’s access to quiet spaces.
Will there be separation between kids and adults?
Yes. Public feedback has been clear on the need for different audiences, and users of different ages, to be able to use the library space simultaneously. A new library building would be designed with those wishes in mind. Design would allow for separation between children and adult programming. In the current library space, normal library operations cease in order to host many children’s programs. Evening events are held after 7pm for family and adult audiences. A new library building will allow for dedicated children’s space, separate from spaces for adults, and other quiet areas.
If the library is located next to the school, will it be a school library? Will the library be taken over by students?
Regardless of the library’s location, the first goal of Gunnison County Libraries is to serve all library users well. If the library were closer to school facilities the anticipated increase in student use would be addressed in both the design of the building and the programs the library offered. The library is committed to serving all of its users effectively and simultaneously regardless of location. The design of any new library facility will be focused on creating opportunity for flexible spaces, allowing rooms to be split and used for multiple activities at the same time, while not impeding on general library use. The library, and its collections, reading spaces, computers, work space, digital media, etc., will always be open and accessible to the public regardless of the library’s location.
How are Gunnison County Libraries funded?
Gunnison County Libraries are funded through an Inter-Governmental Agreement with Gunnison County. The library is not a county department.
What facilities or properties are owned by Gunnison County Libraries? Old Rock? Ann Zugelder?
Gunnison County Libraries does not own the Ann Zugelder Library in Gunnison or the Old Rock Library in Crested Butte. Gunnison County owns the library facility in Gunnison while the Town of Crested Butte owns the Old Rock Library. Gunnison County Libraries does own 5.32-acres just North of the Community School in Gunnison. This property is commonly known as the Van Tuyl parcel. The property was donated by the late Gunnison rancher Ray Van Tuyl. Mr. Van Tuyl donated the property with the intent and vision that it would serve the community as a site for a public library.
How are the Gunnison and Crested Butte Libraries connected?
The Gunnison Library, (Ann Zugelder Library), and the Crested Butte Library, (Old Rock Library) are Gunnison County Library District’s two physical locations. The District boundary is the same boundary as Gunnison County. The District is currently funded by Gunnison County with no dedicated funds from the residents of Gunnison County.
What locations are you considering for a new public library?
The Library District owns one location in Gunnison, the Van Tuyl property, 5.32 acres adjacent to the Community School, Charmar park, and the Van Tuyl trails. Gunnison County owns the current library property at 307 North Wisconsin. The feasibility of meeting the community’s needs on the Van Tuyl property and the current library location on Wisconsin Street will be part of the review process. Additionally, the Library District is gathering information about what the community would like to gain from the location of their public library. Examples of property attributes include ample parking, outdoor space, a single story facility, proximity to the central business district, and proximity to schools. As the community’s priorities are better understood additional sites will be considered and evaluated based on their features, availability, and feasibility.
How will a location be chosen?
Locations will be considered for their ability to accommodate the square footage and programmatic site amenities desired by the community. Each site will be analyzed comprehensively, with specific focus given to the following site opportunities and constraints: site acquisition, demolition, zoning, access to utilities, and cost implications for each. Feedback from the community, gathered through public meetings, online surveys, phone surveys, and general public outreach opportunities, will help to narrow the focus and guide the site selection process based on needs, wants, and site features.
How much will a new library cost?
A cost estimate will become clearer after the public’s input on scope and program. Those items will be combined with the site study bringing the scope of the project into sharper focus. Gunnison County Libraries needs to gain a clearer understanding of what the community would like to gain from library facility improvements before financing options can be considered.
What is the project timeline?
Gunnison County Libraries is focused on developing a full understanding of what the community would like to enjoy in their public library and identifying the best place for a new library. That process will take most or all of 2018. The next step in the process will not be clear until those important questions have been answered.
How will the initial work be paid for?
Gunnison County Libraries is committed to the stewardship of public funds. Library leaders will carefully weigh public and private financing options after a project scope and location have been identified. The preliminary work is being paid for with funds that have been saved for the purpose of improving District facilities.
What will happen to the existing Gunnison Library?
The feasibility of achieving needed improvements, renovations, or expansion of the existing facility will be fully considered through this process.
Why do we need a new library in Gunnison?
The Gunnison Public Library provides critical resources to residents and visitors of the City of Gunnison and Gunnison County. Library visits, collection use, hours of operation, internet use, program offerings, and attendance have been steadily increasing since 1972 when the current library was constructed.
The last major renovation and addition of the Gunnison Public Library was in 1985.
Over the last 46 years libraries have changed. The way people connect with information has changed. The services that public libraries offer have expanded. The way libraries function has changed. All of these changes affect the way a library uses its physical space. The design and space of the current Gunnison Public Library no longer allow the library to adequately serve the public.
Gunnison County Libraries would like to improve our service to the community. Through this public visioning process the Library District hopes to understand the best, most efficient way to move our libraries forward. Some of the areas identified as needing improvement include a dedicated children’s library, programming space, meeting spaces, instruction spaces, improved collection spaces, a teen space, adequate and integrated technology, efficient work space, and spaces where the community can connect over creative pursuits.