Library Children's Room Renovation
In the last year (June 2024-5), the Children's Room welcomed 135,435 visitors. 42% of the total visitors to the library visited the Children's Room. More than 50% of the library's total circulation (book, film, audiobook checkouts) is from the juvenile collection. An entire generation of Bozeman kids grew up in this space, and it is deeply beloved. All this use shows - things are breaking, showing their age, and we have outgrown the ways we currently use the space.
Bozeman Public Library is seeking public input in preparation for renovating this beloved Children’s Room, and is working with Minnesota architecture firm MSR Design, which designed the recent renovation, and Bozeman architecture design firm SMA to design the next phase for this communal space.
Goals of the project include:
- Increase sightlines and safety
- Increase accessibility, including changing tables to support diapering tall children and spaces to appeal to neurodivergent patrons
- Create intentional dramatic play and makerspace areas for children of all ages.
- Expand storage and staff workspaces and bring tools like a washer/dryer, dishwasher, and utility sink to the backstage areas
One of our guiding values for this project is to utilize user-centered design principles. We want children (and their caregivers) to have a hand in deciding what their public library should look and feel like.
-
Public Engagement Summary
Share Public Engagement Summary on Facebook Share Public Engagement Summary on Twitter Share Public Engagement Summary on Linkedin Email Public Engagement Summary link
After a whirlwind week of fabulous conversations in November, one thing is clear: people come to the BPL Children's Room both for the collection - the books, films, and audiobooks - and for the Library playspaces.
We received 135 formal responses to our design activities, surveys, and structured conversations. Families want:
Play! Zone Defined, Age Separated Playspaces
Both quiet and active play zones as well as better definition of age separated play included soft padded and protected areas for toddlers and crawlers, open-ended play for preschoolers, and a place where older kids who often feel "too big" for the the current room can learn.
Books & Early Literacy
Access to physical books while ensuring browsing is intuitive and accessible for all ages. Prioritizing literacy-focused spaces and play over digital screens.
Creative Learning & Hands-On Activities
A robust creative learning zone including STEAM and maker-style activities, craft areas, sensory play, dramatic play, and art exploration.
A Calmer, Less Crowded, Less Noisy Environment
Caregivers consistently described the Children's Room as overcrowded- especially during peak times and winter months - with an open layout that amplifies noise and create a chaotic environment for supervising kids and focused play.
Warm, Welcoming, Whimsical Aesthetic
A magical, child-friendly environment that feels warm and imaginative. Repeated themes include avoiding cold, overly modern design and using natural materials, softness, and color.
Our conversations confirmed what we know anecdotally: that families love learning through play, through hands-on scientific or artistic exploration, through social connections and community, and through the extensive library collection. It will be a tall order to balance all of these needs within the spatial and financial parameters of this renovation. Please stay tuned for more updates as we move into the scoping and pricing phases of this project.
-
Public Engagement Underway
Share Public Engagement Underway on Facebook Share Public Engagement Underway on Twitter Share Public Engagement Underway on Linkedin Email Public Engagement Underway link
It's been a week full of fascinating conversations as Bozeman folks share their dreams for the future of their Children's Room with architects from MSR Design and SMA Architecture + Design. Patrons of every age have contributed big dreams - like a giant indoor treehouse full of cozy reading nooks - and practical considerations alike. There is still time to make your voice heard! Attend one of the public engagement sessions or fill out the survey, all linked and listed on this site.