While students enjoy time away from the classroom over the summer, the Auburn Public Library is looking to revamp its entryway.
In coordination with the city’s Public Works Department, the library has unveiled a proposal for an outdoor classroom project to occupy the area between its parking lots and McKinley Avenue.
“Through the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Master Plan, the green space where the outdoor classroom will be constructed was identified as an underutilized space that could be made more finished and more complete,” said Chris Warren, the library’s director.
The new facility’s principal feature will be a performance area, which the library intends to use to provide more opportunities for its programming.
ADA-accessible seating will surround the area to allow for all library visitors to attend events and socialize with others.
The library hopes to host story time programs, lectures and demonstrations that might be better suited in an open-air setting in the new outdoor classroom. A small garden will help with outdoor education.
“When it’s not in use, we hope that patrons will see the outdoor classroom as a destination where they can read or eat their lunch or play with their kids,” Warren said.
Warren and Dan Ballard, the project’s manager and designer from the Public Works Department, will be presenting the concept at the upcoming meeting of the Auburn Public Library Board on April 23.
No estimate was given for the cost of construction given that the project is out for competitive bid and won’t be awarded building funds until after the board meeting.
The library aims to have the outdoor classroom finished at the start of September, followed by a dedication and official opening within the following weeks.
“[It will be] providing us with an additional space for programs and events while also functioning as a pocket, passive park when it’s not otherwise in use,” Warren said.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
