Library architects seek input for new branches

Library architects seek input for new branches

The public has spoken, but we need to hear more. In 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. Architects are developing a plan that lists what kind of spaces and services should be in each of the five new buildings, and they need your input. Five public meetings are set so residents living near the planned new buildings can tell architects what they want in the new libraries and what kind of services and technologies should be in the children's area, the reference area, meeting rooms, study rooms, display areas, etc. It's your neighborhood library, and we want to know what you consider the top priorities.

Charleston County Public Library should reflect our community and have buildings that will take us into the future. Attend any of these meetings, and help us make that happen.
Meeting dates/locations:

Monday, September 14 at 7 p.m.New St. Paul's Branch Library (Replaces St. Paul's/Hollywood Branch)
E.B. Ellington Elementary Cafeteria
5540 Old Jacksonboro Rd., Ravenel

Thursday, September 17 at 7 p.m.New West Ashley/Bees Ferry Branch LibraryWest Ashley High School Auditorium
4060 West Wildcat Blvd., Charleston

Monday, September 21 at 7 p.m.New Pinehaven Branch Library (Replaces Cooper River Memorial Branch)
Cooper River Memorial Branch
3503 Rivers Ave., North Charleston

Monday, September 28 at 7 p.m.New Mt. Pleasant/Carolina Park Branch LibraryWando High School Cafeteria
1000 Warrior Way, Mt. Pleasant

Thursday, October 1 at 7 p.m.New James Island Branch Library (Replaces James Island Branch)
James Island Elementary School Media Center
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 a meeting can send comments to letusknow@ccpl.org.