The proposed new library building and what it offers

The following was submitted by the Wayland Board of Library Trustees

Location:

The proposed new library building is at 195 Main Street, the site of the former Highway Department garage. Right next to the middle school and a Recreation parcel, and within walking distance of Hannah Williams Playground, Cochituate ballfields, and the shops nearby, this new site offers many advantages to both students and residents. The proposed new building will be easily accessible by car, bike, and pedestrians, and have double the parking spaces of the current library. A planned outdoor seating area will invite patrons to enjoy the fresh air in nice weather.

Access for all:

The entire building will be ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)–compliant. With more handicapped parking spaces and a level parking lot, access to the building will be smoother for elderly residents, those with mobility challenges, and caregivers with children. Automatic entry doors and an elevator will accommodate strollers, motorized wheelchairs, and anyone not equipped to do heavy lifting. Indoor doorways will also be wider, and residents will find that reaching high or low for a book or collection item will be easier with wider, ADA-compliant aisles. Improved lighting throughout will provide a far better reading experience, whether selecting a title from the shelves, reading, or working in a comfortable spot.

Workspace goals:

The library is committed to providing up-to-date technology for residents’ use. Meeting spaces will have high-tech infrastructure to meet the ever-increasing demand to be connected. As more people work remotely, we expect the library to become a work and incubator space for those seeking a comfortable, potentially social space with internet access, traditional business resources, and meeting and study spaces. A flexible-use technology lab will have up-to-date technology accessible to everyone. This room and one in the teen area will also be available as “maker” spaces that can accommodate classes or workshops in coding, film editing, 3D printing, sewing, or any other skill, technique, or craft.

Energy goals:

The new library will reflect Wayland’s green and sustainability commitments by a design that will lower energy operating costs, reduce the lifetime carbon impact, and benefit user health.  Our architects and the Permanent Municipal Building Committee are committed to following LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) design and comparable standards for energy efficiency and sustainability. Highly insulated foundations, walls, windows, and roof using sustainably sourced materials will minimize energy consumption.  A passive solar design will bring in sunlight in winter and block much of it in summer, allowing for natural daylight and open views year-round. The project team is committed to pursuing a cost-effective roof top solar array and will explore adding a parking lot solar canopy like the ones at the Middle and High Schools. Wayland’s new library has the potential not only to meet its own energy needs, but also contribute additional energy savings for the town.

With its energy-efficient, barrier-free design, with up to date work environment and technology, in a location that is easy to access by car, bike, or on foot, this 21st-century building will embody many of the values our community holds. 5 Concord Road remains a beautiful, iconic building with many possibilities for the town, but a 19th-century facility cannot meet 21st-century library needs. It is time to take advantage of state grant funds and invest in a contemporary library that serves all generations, for today and for the future of our town.

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