In early September, members of the Friends Academy community excitedly entered the school year, eager to experience brand new library renovations. With new layouts and spaces already in place, the community has quickly engulfed everything that our library has to offer. Recently, I got a chance to catch up with Director of Library Program and Information Resources Karly Hoenzsch to learn more about what the renovation motives were, what has been accomplished, and what is left to look forward to!
Karly shared that renovation planning started a few years ago. With the library being such a dynamic facet of school, the renovation team’s main goal was to maximize the space. In the past, the library has served students, families, colleagues, alumni, and even external researchers through the FA Archives Program. Consequently, trying to maintain the library’s open space characteristics while attempting to serve so many different groups proved to be the greatest challenge.
Currently, next to the library’s entrance, there is a new space designated for middle schoolers to check out books. There will also be brand new collaborative tables added to this space to foster a collective work environment. Ultimately, the main goal for the space is to be a reliable, welcoming area for middle schoolers.
Additionally, the library has received a new, more private space named The Hub. The Hub will be designated for any special learning events or programs both during and after school. The space has already been used for several student groups, learning events, and workshops!
From a utilities perspective, the team has heavily prioritized saving energy. A key feature working towards this goal is the library’s new advanced lighting system. Switching over to LED lights, the new system is constantly sensing the natural lux levels outside to keep the inside intensity level constant at every hour. In combination with a motion sensor feature, the new light system greatly reduced previous energy waste.
As for what is left to look forward to, new library furniture is set to arrive in waves throughout the next couple of weeks! In addition to new carpet that has already been installed, the library is set to receive new bookcases, chairs, tables, couches, shelves, desks, and more! Karly shared that each piece of furniture was chosen with a purpose. Stylistically, she explained that the team was sure to incorporate a mix of modern with the classic Friends Academy style. Furthermore, each piece works to foster either privacy, collaboration, or socialization, serving purpose to all work that is done in the library.
As all community members embrace the library’s new offerings, it is crucial that we keep our Quaker practices of integrity and community in mind to treat the space with dignity and respect.
