Library consultants seek input for new James Island branch
October 28, 2015
CHARLESTON, SC – The public has spoken, but we need to hear more. Last November, Charleston County Public Library asked residents if they wanted to pay to build new libraries and renovate existing ones. You approved the proposal by nearly 3-to-1, telling us just how important you feel libraries are and that you want more.
It’s now time to get down to the nitty gritty. The County has hired a team of consultants and architects to develop a plan that lists what kind of spaces and services should be in each of the five new buildings, and they need your input. It’s your neighborhood library, and we want to know what you consider the top priorities in the children’s area, the reference area, meeting rooms, study rooms, display areas, etc.
A meeting to discuss the new James Island branch was previously held October 1, but due to the torrential rainstorms that started that night, local officials and residents requested a second meeting since many people didn’t want to come out in the rain.
Charleston County Public Library should reflect our community and have buildings that will take us into the future. Attend this meeting, and help us make that happen.
Monday, November 9 at 7 p.m.
New James Island Branch Library
James Island Elementary School Cafeteria
1872 Grimball Road, Charleston
Voters approved a referendum to spend $108.5 million to build five new branch libraries, renovate 13 existing branches and move support services out of the Main Library to free up more space for the public. A major focus includes upgrading technology by adding self check-out kiosks, more public computers and the latest equipment in public meeting rooms.
Charleston County has hired Charleston-based architectural firm Cummings & McCrady Inc. to oversee this planning phase. Several other architectural firms are involved, including library-planning specialists McMillan Pazden Smith from Greenville.
To learn more about the construction and renovation plan, view a map and see a breakdown of the estimated costs, click here. Residents unable to attend the meeting can send comments to [email protected].
