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Architects Field Questions From Public At Second Carroll Public Library Steering Committee Meeting

Photo (left to right): Danielle Hermann and Joe Feldmann with OPN Architects
 

One community member in-particular brought several different questions with them at the most recent meeting of the Carroll Public Library steering committee last Friday, May 12. After a preview of the proposed exterior and interior renderings and floor plans presented by Danielle Hermann and Joe Feldmann of OPN Architects, Maxine Vontersch asked why the proposed plans put adult stacks on the second level of the renovated Farner Government Building. Feldmann said that one of the major factors for this layout is that it is easier to split adult options than it is children’s. With this design, the most popular items, such as new releases, periodicals and best sellers, can be located on the main level and stacks can be placed on the second. Hermann went on to explain that there is a safety reason for keeping all children’s programming together as well.

Vontersch also had questions about a feature OPN had added called a social staircase. This option creates a multi-use space by making a landing into a stage at the north end of the library and a wider staircase that provides stadium-style seating for the stage area. Vontersch says she believes this could be a hard sell for some.

Feldmann and Hermann agreed that this was exactly the type of feedback they, the city council and the library committee and foundation need to hear and address to move forward with a proposed August referendum and for fundraising efforts.

After feedback on minor changes to the renderings were presented, the architects discussed the floor plan for the gifted Commercial Savings Bank building that will be adapted to house city offices. Ryan Milligan, Vice President of the bank, was on hand at the meeting and voiced his opinion that more detailed renderings of the bank could be very beneficial to the upcoming referendum. He said there is one important factor that people really need to keep in mind when reviewing what this will bring to the community and that people should not forget that two buildings are going to be part of this bond issue, not just a new library. The Commercial Savings Bank building will see little exterior changes and OPN is working to utilize the existing space in a way that will keep costs low, but still provide the necessary space needed to conduct city business. City officials will consider providing additional renderings for the potential referendum communication. OPN will have updated renderings ready for review by city staff on Tuesday and the committee’s finalized versions will be presented to the Carroll City Council at their next regular meeting, Monday, May 22.

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