DES MOINES PUBLIC LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN APPENDIX … · Des Moines Public Library Facilities Master Plan, 2013 7 Opening in 2006, the Central Library is a signature building with

DES MOINES PUBLIC LIBRARY

STRATEGIC PLAN APPENDIX

SECTION SIX

Facilities Master Plan 2013-2018

Des Moines Public Library Facilities Master Plan, 2013 2

Introduction

In 2011 the Des Moines Public Library System completed a large portion of a major library

building program which consisted of a new 110,000 square foot Central Library, as well and

expansions and/or renovations of five other branch facilities (East Side Library, Forest Avenue

Library, Franklin Avenue Library, North Side Library, and South Side Library).

As part of the strategic planning process and in consultation with DMPL staff, this facilities plan

sets forth recommendations to provide the most effective space allocation in support of the goals

and objectives of the plan.

Comparison to Peer Libraries

For many years, the primary basis for determining the space needs for public library systems was

based on national and state space standards. Prior to 2000, the American Library Association

(ALA) promulgated a .6 square feet per capita as a minimum standard for public libraries, but has

since discarded that standard as too limiting and not necessarily responsive to local

circumstances.

More recently, ALA has supported the development of space needs based on identified service

and collection needs of library systems. Many states, including Iowa, have followed suit. Service

to Iowa: Public Library Standards, Fifth Edition – 2010 only references service-related issues,

such as seats-per capita, as opposed to square-feet-per capita. This publication also recommends

that each public library system in Iowa perform a written space needs assessment every five

years. This document responds to that recommendation.

Although comparison to established space standards is no longer considered a viable option, it is

instructive to compare DMPL facilities to peer libraries identified as appropriate benchmarks in

the DMPL strategic planning benchmarking study.

Library Population Total Square

Feet

Square Feet

per Capita

Spokane Public Library. WA 208.916 296,529 1.42

Des Moines Public Library, IA 208,293 190,590 .92

Richmond Public Library, VA 200,158 166,316 .83

Yuma County Library District, AZ 213,086 174,106 .82

Chesapeake Public Library, VA 216,568 160,076 .74

Ramsey County Library, MN 224,195 153,372 .68

Camden County Library, NJ 242,336 119,000 .49

Erie County Public Library, PA 280,243 98,201 .35

Mesa County Public Library District, CO 146,093 50,839 .35

Dauphin County Library System, PA 221,283 73,728 .33

Henderson District Public Libraries, NV 268,080 86,971 .32


Primary Service Areas Defining branch library primary service areas helps to identify service gaps and to site library

facilities where they will best serve customers. Defining service areas may indicate the need for a

new full service branch in a particular area, a branch expansion or replacement where an existing

facility is inadequate, or a focused-service facility to meet defined customer demands and needs.

Primary service areas have been designated in the strategic plan for Des Moines Public Library

facilities.

Experience in other urbanized areas in the United States indicates that the most significant factor

affecting public library use is distance. Commonly, up to 75% of library use may come from

persons living within 2 miles of a particular branch, and 85% or more living within three miles.

Although not necessarily true for all customers, persons generally use the library that is closest to

their home. Some may choose to use a library which is not within their primary branch service

area for a variety of reasons— a particular barrier, such as a freeway or railroad, for example. In

the case where primary branch service areas overlap, persons living between two or more

branches will on occasion use more than one library. Choice of branch may also relate to travel

patterns going to and from work, travel time, or for combining a trip to the library with some

other business or recreation. Particularly in heavily populated areas, physical barriers, traffic

conditions, or other similar issues influence use preferences. Distance, however, remains by far

the most prevalent factor determining effective service areas for public library facilities.

In the case of the Des Moines Public Library, populations in service areas range from a low of

16,000 persons for the Forest Avenue Library branch up to 52,000 for the very busy Franklin

Avenue Library. Where service areas of branches may overlap, the service areas of neighboring

branches are generally judged to meet at approximately the halfway point between them unless

there are other factors such as physical barriers. Primary service areas for each DMPL facility

were developed by physical observation of the community, discussions with library staff, and

demographic data from the 2010 U.S. Census. The following chart summarizes population data

for each branch. See APPENDIX A for a complete listing of the census tracts included in each

primary service area.


Summary of Primary Service Area Demographics – 2010 Census

Facility Total White Black Asian Multi-

Race

Other Hispanic Male Female

Central 33764 25066

74.4%

4225

12.5%

1044

3.1%

1244

3.7%

2185

6.5%

4398

13%

16790

49.7%

16974

50.3%

East Side 36668 29086

79.3%

3122

8.5%

1381

3.8%

1149

3.1%

1930

5.3%

4432

12.1%

17762

48.4%

18906

51.6%

Forest Ave 16163 7138

44.2%

4652

28.8%

1398

8.6%

765

4.7%

2209

13.7%

4069

25.2%

8031

49.7%

8132

50.3%

Franklin

Ave

52206 43891

84.1%

3821

7.3%

1835

3.5%

1394

2.7%

1265

2.4%

2890

5.5%

25183

48.3%

27023

51.7%

North Side 21002 16342

77.8%

1877

8.9%

925

4.4%

701

3.3%

1157

5.5%

2571

12.2%

10577

50.4%

10425

49.6%

South Side 32968

27509

83.4%

1870

5.7%

1012

3.1%

1082

3.3%

1495

4.5%

3605

10.9%

16165

49%

16803

51%

Total 192771

149032

77.3%

19567

10.1%

7595

3.9%

6335

3.3%

10241

5.3%

21965

11.4%

94508

49%

98263

51%

The “other” category combines three U.S. Census categories (Other, American Indian/Native

Alaskan, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander) and other cultural groups that respondents did not

self-identify as fitting the major race categories. (This most notably may affect Middle Eastern

and South Asian residents.)

Summary population figures vary from the 2010 Des Moines population of 203,433 for several

reasons. In some cases, a census district may be so distant from a DMPL facility; the district is

unserved or underserved. In other cases, persons living outside the Des Moines city limits may

live near enough to a DMPL branch to be considered part of its service population and be eligible

for service through contract. Examples are residents of Windsor Heights, near the Franklin

Avenue Library, and residents just north of the North Side Library, in census district 105. In a

few cases, mostly on the North and South sides, the Des Moines portion of an affected district is

largely unpopulated.

The number of residents assigned above to each library relates directly to census district totals.

But they should be viewed as approximate, and for practical purposes can be rounded to the

nearest thousand when analyzing service load.

Because of the distance from any DMPL facility, the populations in nine census districts falling

partially or completely within Des Moines city limits are not included in the above primary

services areas. This last factor most significantly affects residents living in census districts 39.01,

39.02, 108.02 and a portion of census district 201, situated to the southeast and east of the South

Side Library. The combined population of these unserved or underserved districts is estimated at

18,000 residents. This report makes recommendations to address this shortcoming.


Space Comparison of DMPL Facilities

While the Des Moines Public Library as a whole compares favorably with peer U.S. library

systems, it is instructive to compare DMPL facilities for effectiveness in serving residents of their

respective service areas in terms of library space per capita. The space per capita figure for the

Central Library can be discounted, as that facility has system wide functions, but it will be noted

that the space available per capita for the North Side and South Side Libraries is substantially

below the other three branches. Although overall, Des Moines Public Libraries provide space

which can effectively support the goals and objectives of the strategic plan, the five branches and

the East Side and South Side Libraries, in particular, will be evaluated in terms of their individual

service populations.

Library Facility Service Area Population

Rounded to nearest 1,000

residents

Facility Square

Feet

Square Feet per

Capita

Central Library

34,000 110,000 3.24

East Side Library

37,000 15,200 .41

Forest Avenue Library

16,000 12,000 .75

Franklin Avenue Library

52,000 28,590 .55

North Side Library

21,000 10,000 .48

South Side Library

33,000 14,800 .45

Total

193,000 190,590 Not Applicable


Central Library

1000 Grand Avenue

Size 110,000 square feet

Date Constructed 2006

Additions/Renovations Not applicable

Collection 221,913 material items

Staff 13 Full-time, 9 Half-time

Technology 40 Adult Internet Stations

16 Teen Internet Stations

6 Child Internet Stations

6 Child Learning Stations

36 Catalog Stations

2 Word Processing Stations

5 Special Use Stations

FY2010 Circulation 468,979

FY2010 Door Count 515,685

FY 2010 Program

Attendance

13,232

Parking Underground Garage

Service Area

Population

34,000

74% White

13% African-American

3% Asian

4% Multi-Race

6% Other

13% Hispanic

With its larger collection and range of services, the Central Library draws library users from

throughout Des Moines and Polk County, but has been assigned a more defined primary service

area serving persons who live closer to that facility than to other DMPL branches, and so are most

likely to make the Central Library their primary service point. This primary service area

population has been placed at 34,000 individuals who live in or near downtown and who do not

reside in the primary service areas of other DMPL facilities. In addition, many persons living

more distant doubtless make regular use of the Central Library because of travel patterns and

work locations. Furthermore, many residents who consider a DMPL branch as their primary

service point likely make occasional use of the Central Library.

The dominant market segments for the Central Library service area as identified by the Tapestry

software for the strategic plan are as follows:

Inner City Tenants: In areas to the north and east of the library.

Hometown: In an area just below the junction of the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers.

City Dimensions: West of the library in areas north and south of the State Capitol.


Opening in 2006, the Central Library is a signature building with a very strong central position in

downtown Des Moines. The library site is very constrained and forced a design which, while

quite striking, is not optimum for operation by the very small staff. There are numerous areas

which are quite isolated from staff supervision and parking on-site is limited to a small

underground garage and street parking. Nevertheless, the facility should effectively provide

sufficient space for central library services for many years to come. There is generous space

devoted to public seating and the library collection has considerable room to expand. The

building’s major strength is its location and its strong design presence in the city’s urban

landscape.

Since the Central Library is quite new and large enough that is should not have to consider

expansion for many years, this evaluation focuses primarily on space allocation and marketing

issues.

- Although the building provides generous space for most service needs, the one notable

exception is the limited space provided for children’s services. The area is quite compact

and is not adequately separated from adult areas. Several of the tables that children use

for craft activities, which are adjacent to the adult fiction area, are occasionally occupied

by adults.

- While the checkout desk provides a gracious greeting point for customers entering the area

from the Gateway Gallery, persons entering the building from the Main Entrance off of

Grand Avenue are not greeted by a service point other than a security desk off to the right.

- The DMPL Used Book Sale shelves occupy prime service space. While the sales area

should be easily accessible, these “prime real estate” shelves should be occupied by high

demand library materials.

- The building’s seating of many large six person reading tables are commonly used by only

one or two persons at a time since persons who do not know each other tend to avoid

sitting adjacent to each other.

- The library’s LCD informational screens are not effectively located. Several are mounted

well above eye level and are too far from building entrances.

- The library’s display shelving for brochures and printed handouts is isolated in a hallway

just outside the rest rooms.

Recommended Action Plan

- Expand the children’s area by shifting a portion of the adult fiction shelving to the east.

This can be accomplished by reducing the fiction and audiovisual materials shelving to

42” wide and reducing adult seating. This would allow the construction of a 5 to 6 foot

apron wall branching out from the south window wall to provide some separation of the


children’s area from the adult area. Est. Cost - $30,000 to $50,000 for wall construction

and related costs.

- Create a one-person information kiosk facing the main entrance, located near the stairway

to the second floor. Est. Cost - $30,000 (furniture, power and communications)

- Relocate the Used Book Sale Area to the glassed-in vending area adjacent to the Main

Entrance. Consider constructing a drop slot into the east wall (which is shared on the

other side by a staff area) to allow book purchase monies to be deposited by library users

on an honor system. Est. Cost. - $5,000

- Construct table top dividers for six person tables to convert them to individual study

carrels. Est. Cost – $18,000 (initially 6 tables@$3,000 per table)

-

- Install an LCD information screen in main entrance lobby. Est. Cost - $10,000

- Develop brochure display in a more prominent location. Est. Cost - $7,000

- Consider using the exterior of the southwest window wall overlooking the Gateway West

Park Area for marketing. The use of banners during festival events in the park area might

be an option. Est. Cost – variable but not significant.

- Improve the open hours signage at each public entrance. Consider the use of vinyl

lettering on the inside of the glass panels adjacent to each set of doors. Est. Cost - $3,000.

Total Estimated Cost of Recommended Actions - $110,000 to $130,000


East Side Library

2559 Hubbell Avenue

Size 15,200 Square Feet


Additions/Renovations 2006

Collection 59,149




5 Catalog Stations

2 Learning Stations




FY 2010 Program

Attendance

5,518

Parking 166 in immediate vicinity, but

shared with adjacent pool and

ball fields

Service Area

Population

37,000

79% White

9% African-American

4% Asian

3% Multi-Race

5% Other

12% Hispanic

The East Side Library clientele is comprised of predominantly lower middle income white

residents with pockets of upper middle income families. Staff also noted significant use by

several ethnic minorities and immigrant populations. There is some overlap with the North Side

and Central Library service areas, as well as the neighboring cities of Ankeny and Pleasant Hill.

The dominant market segments for this branch as identified by the Tapestry software for the

strategic plan are as follows:

Rustbelt Traditions - Heavy representation southeast of the library.

Great Expectations - Far northeast corner of Des Moines.

Hometown - In areas south of the library along S.E. 22nd

Street.

Rustbelt Retirees - In areas north and east of the library.

This facility was renovated and expanded in 2006 with the addition of a new lobby, meeting room

area, and a small seating area on the west end of the building. However, at 15,200 square feet, as


compared to other DMPL branches, it remains undersized for its service population, estimated at

37,000 residents.

The building suffers from several space allocation and maintenance issues:

- The teen area, next to the entrance, is very small and not inviting.

- The workroom is too small, requiring some “double-bunking” at staff workstations.

During the renovation, it was reduced to create a public conference room and two small

study rooms.

- The Internet Station Counter immediately inside the entrance, functions as a visual barrier

to the Checkout/Reference Desk which is the primary public service point.

- More seating, particularly lounge seating, with access to electrical outlets is needed for

laptop computer users.

- The 42” high check-out portion of the service desk at is 8” too high, and the reference

desk portion is partially hidden from persons entering the library.

- Additional internal and external security cameras are needed.

- The exterior pylon sign adjacent to Hubbell Avenue is in very poor condition and

undersized.

- Although there are some very nice flowering plants in front of the west entrance to the

building, landscaping, in general, is in poor condition.

- Despite the presence of 166 public parking spaces in the immediate vicinity of the library,

parking is at a premium when the adjacent ball fields and pool are in use.


While the service population of 37,000 residents justifies a larger area library at this location,

given the recent renovation and expansion of the building and the current economic environment,

substantially enlarging or replacing the East Side Library is not realistic at this time; however, it

should remain a future consideration as the economy improves. A replacement facility of 25,000

square feet is warranted for this part of Des Moines and should remain a goal before the end of

the decade - 2020. Nevertheless, some modest changes in the short term can substantially

improve the ability of the East Side Library to meet current demand.

- Create a new teen area by expanding the facility by 650 square feet on the west end of the

library. This can be accomplished at a relatively modest cost by filling in the vacant

building indentation immediately south of the west entrance. Est. Cost - $200,000


- Upgrade electrical infrastructure to provide additional outlets for laptop computer users in

a common area with seating. Est. Cost - $40,000 (electrical) $10,000 (seating)

- Reduce collection size to open floor space east of the current computer stations’ counter

which is a significant barrier in front of the main service desk. Reduction of 20 double

faced sections. Est. Cost – None

- Replace the current service desk with a new ADA-compliant desk. Est. Cost - $50,000

- Replace the exterior pylon sign adjacent to Hubbell Avenue with a larger internally

illuminated, more vandal-resistant sign. Est. Cost - $40,000

- Upgrade the security camera system adding more interior and exterior security cameras.

Est. Cost - $20,000

- Improve exterior landscaping. Est. Cost – Variable.

Total Estimated Cost of Recommended Actions- $360,000 plus cost of landscaping


Forest Avenue Library

1326 Forest Avenue




Collection 37,975




4 Catalog Stations

2 Language Learning Stations




FY 2010 Program

Attendance

3,367

Parking 26 plus 41 in adjacent Park & Rec Ctr

Service Area

Population

16,000

44% White

29% African-American

7% Asian

5% Multi-Race

14% Other

25% Hispanic

The Forest Avenue Library is unique in the Des Moines Public Library system in that it functions

much like an inner city library operation in a large urban area – focusing less on the circulation of

popular library materials and more on programming and educational support. While this library

checks out fewer books and other library materials than other branches, it provides an important

role as a community center and focal point for an ethnically diverse, low income service area.

This area has the highest percentage of African-American and Hispanic residents, as well as a

significant number of persons classifying themselves as “other”—often the choice for persons of

Middle Eastern or South Asian heritage. The staff reported a significant Bosnian community as

well. They also noted that the area is in transition with the percentage of African-American

resident on the decline.

The dominant market segments for the Forest Avenue Library as identified by the Tapestry


Inner City Tenants - In areas southwest of the library.

Great Expectations - In areas west and north of the library.

Hometown - Immediately west of the library.

City Dimensions - Dominant both east and west of the library.


The branch staff is enthusiastically committed to serving this community effectively by offering a

strong program of services. During the site visit, both meeting rooms were in active use, and over

50 young people were counted in the building. This facility also provides services in cooperation

with the Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department through the availability of its meeting

spaces and computer equipment. In essence, the Forest Avenue Library functions as a de facto

community center for the Evelyn Davis Park. The library was renovated and expanded on both

ends in 2007. It appeared to be appropriate in size and collection to the service area population,

which is smaller than other branches. However, a few building needs were noted.


While the Forest Avenue Branch checks out fewer library materials than the other DMPL

branches, it is clearly a very well used branch when it comes to walk-in service and it is

effectively meeting the service needs of its highly diverse service population at its current size

and configuration. The only significant deficiency is the poor condition of its exterior pylon sign.

- Replace the exterior pylon sign adjacent to Forest Avenue with a larger internally

illuminated, more vandal resistant sign. Est. Cost - $45,000

Total Estimated Cost of Recommended Actions- $45,000

Long Term Plans

Beyond the limited short term action plan for the Forest Avenue Library, consideration should be

given in the next Facilities Needs Assessment five years hence, to the longer term needs of this

service area along with the needs of residents in the North Side Library service area. Together

these two facilities are providing 22,000 square feet of space for a combined service population of

approximately 32,000 residents. This facilities plan projects the development of new 25,000 to

30,000 square foot area libraries for the south side (immediately) and the east side (by 2020). As

the Franklin Avenue Library already functions as an area library, this would leave only the Forest

Avenue and North Side Branch service areas without an area library. Consideration should be

given in the next plan to replacement of both of these facilities with one new area library 25,000

square feet or larger at a central location that will effectively serve current constituencies in both

service areas.


Franklin Avenue Library

5000 Franklin Avenue



Additions/Renovations 1981, 1999, 2011

Collection 123,211





12 Catalog Stations




FY 2010 Program

Attendance

14,820

Parking Shared with Community Center

Service Area

Population

52,000

84% White

7% African-American

4% Asian

3% Multi-Race

2% Other

6% Hispanic

This branch qualifies as an area library in the DMPL system due to its large size and large service

population. It is well-located to serve its estimated service population of 52,000 residents, which

includes the City of Windsor Heights by contract. After the Central Library, the Franklin Avenue

Library is the second highest materials circulating branch. Also after the Central Library, with

over 100,000 volumes, this facility houses the second largest branch collection in the DMPL

system. Although a variety of ethnic groups make regular use of the facility, its service

population is the most homogenous of any service area in the DMPL system, with 84% of

residents recorded as white in the 2010 census. The branch benefits from a strong Friends of the

Library organization.

The dominant market segments for the Franklin Avenue Library as identified by the Tapestry


Rustbelt Traditions - In an area immediately west towards Windsor Heights.

Great Expectations - In areas to the northwest (also partly shared with the branch).

Rustbelt Retirees - In areas northeast of the library.

Metropolitans - The most dominant market segment representing much of the

population of the service area.


The Franklin Avenue Library, originally constructed in 1965, was renovated in 1981 and 1999.

In 2011, it was again renovated and expanded from 14,650 square feet to its present 28,590 feet.

The project was very successful, and the facility now has the appearance of an entirely new

building. The library also now has the benefit of a greatly enlarged children’s area, a new teen

area, additional quiet study, group study and meeting spaces, and a much enlarged staff work

area. Developed as a “green” project, Franklin Avenue was recently awarded the coveted LEED

Platinum Certification.

Overall, the building is attractive and well designed and absent a major unforeseen change in its

program of services, should meet the needs of its service area for at least the next 10 to 15 years.

Nevertheless, a few issues were noted that should be addressed to improve functionality.

- The building suffers from poor lighting in several areas, most obviously in the entrance to

the Children’s Area. While a light level of 50 foot-candles at table height is required for

comfortable reading and searching of the shelves, levels as low as 12 foot-candles were

recorded in several areas. In the evening, without the benefit of ambient daylight,

recorded levels were even worse - as low as 6 foot-candles in the story area and at the

lounge chairs adjacent to the fireplace.

- The checkout desk does not allow staff to easily exit the desk to assist customers in the

checkout area across from the desk when they require assistance in using catalog terminals

or picking up reserve materials. Instead, employees are required to transit through another

room to assist customers.

- Although two LCD screens providing information on library services are located in the

check-out area, they are not well-located for customer viewing because they are mounted

well above optimum viewing height.


- Upgrade lighting in several under lit areas, particularly in the entrance to the children’s

area. Est. Cost - $30,000

- Modify the east end of the check-out desk to create an opening for library employees to

exit to assist customers. Since power and communications for the desk are accessed at the

west end, this can be accomplished at minimal cost. Est. Cost - $15,000.

- Add an additional LCD informational screen at eye level in the east and west lobbies

adjacent to the community bulletin board. Est. Cost - $10,000

Total Estimated Cost of Recommended Actions - $55,000


North Side Library

3516 5th Avenue




Collection 46,541




3 Catalog Stations




FY 2010 Program

Attendance

2,333

Parking 38 Spaces

Service Area

Population

21,000

78% White

9% African-American

4% Asian

3% Multi-Race

6% Other

12% Hispanic

Although the service population is composed predominantly of middle income and lower income

residents (78%), there is a slightly higher proportion of African-American and Hispanic

population near this branch. The make-up of the service population is similar to that of the East

Side Branch. The library staff commented that there is significant traffic from elderly residents,

though less than in past years, as area housing occupied by senior citizens has been gradually

transitioning to minority residents. At 10,000 square feet, the facility appears adequately sized for

its 21,000 person service population, and given that it was renovated five years ago, no additional

facility improvements appear warranted at this time.



Rustbelt Traditions - Heavy representation to the north, east, and southeast of the

library.

Great Expectations - In areas to the south and southwest of the library (also partly served

by the Forest Avenue branch).


Because of the proximity of the North Side Library to the Forest Avenue Library, which is located

just two miles southwest; the question might arise as to whether one of these two facilities might

be able to serve both service populations, which combined total about 37,000 residents. Although

this might offer some economies, several factors argue against such a move. First, neither facility

is large enough by itself to provide an effective service program to that larger population base.

Second, neither facility is well located to provide convenient access by itself to the larger service

area. Third, and most important, is the very different nature of the service populations. The

Forest Avenue Library programs target the needs of a very ethnically diverse, low income

population, while the North Side Library appropriately offers a more traditional program of

services and materials. While the development of a new larger facility more optimally located

might address both program needs, the economic realities facing the City of Des Moines at this

time may not support such a course of action. In these circumstances, the Forest Avenue and

North Side branches should continue to serve their respective constituencies at their current sizes

and locations.

It should be noted that in calculating the service population for the North Side Library, it has been

estimated that 30% of Census Tract 105, which lies outside the city limits of Des Moines,

includes adjacent residents which make use of this branch through a county contract with Des

Moines.


Although no facility improvements are proposed at this time, some operational adjustments might

be considered given the growing Latino and senior populations in its service area. This branch

continues to fill an important service role in the DMPL system.

Long Term Plans

Although this five year plan includes no recommendations for changes to the North Side Library

at this time, as with the Forest Avenue Library earlier in this document, consideration should be

given in the next Facilities Needs Assessment five years hence, to the longer term needs of this

service area along with the needs of residents in the Forest Avenue Library service area. Together

these two facilities are providing 22,000 square feet of space for a combined service population of

approximately 37,000 residents. This facilities plan projects the development of new 25,000 to

30,000 square foot area libraries for the south side (immediately) and the east side (by 2020). As

the Franklin Avenue Library already functions as an area library, this would leave only the Forest

Avenue and North Side Libraries service areas without an area library. Consideration should be

given in the next plan to replacement of both of these facilities with one new area library, 25,000

square feet or larger, at a central location that will effectively serve current constituencies in both

service areas.


South Side Library

1111 Porter Avenue

Size 14,800 Square Feet


Additions/Renovations 2006-2007

Collection 70,015



3 Teen Internet Stations

4 Child Game Stations

6 Catalog Stations

2 Learning Stations




FY 2010 Program

Attendance

7,148

Parking 81 spaces

Service Area

Population

33,000

83% White

6% African-American

3% Asian

3% Multi-Race

5% Other

11% Hispanic

Until the mid-1990s, the clientele of the South Side Library was white middle class and

economically lower middle class, but staff reports that since 2000 they have witnessed an increase

in use by other ethnic minorities, most notably African-American and Hispanic area residents.

The northern edge of the South Side Library service area in the vicinity of Park Avenue includes a

significant upper middle class population. The staff report that family use predominates, but use

by seniors is increasing as senior housing is being developed nearby, and the population ages.

While the current service population is estimated at 33,000 residents, there is likelihood that

future housing development south of Interstate Highway 5 will generate an additional service load

for this facility in the future.



Rustbelt Traditions - Heavy representation down the SW 9th

Street corridor.


Inner City Tenants - In an area on the city border just east of SW 9th

St. and in the

vicinity of the East Park Avenue and SW 14th

Street intersection.

Great Expectations - In areas on the east side of SW 9th

Street.

Rustbelt Retirees - In areas north of the library.

The South Side Library was renovated in 2006-2007 along with the last DMPL building program,

but the renovation was largely cosmetic. A number of significant longstanding building problems

were not addressed. A property condition assessment performed in 2011 by Certified Inspections,

Inc. of St. Charles, Illinois, found the general physical condition of the South Side Library to be

poor, particularly the roof and brick/block exterior walls. Besides roof replacement and wall

repairs, it also recommended complete replacement of the heating and air conditioning system,

which with the exception of one AC condenser package, is original to the 1977 building. The

assessment estimated repair costs are nearly $600,000 and “possibly higher.”

If at present the building was effectively meeting service needs, these repairs might be considered

appropriate; however, other factors should be taken into account. At the present estimated service

population of 33,000 residents, the South Side Library provides about .45 square feet per capita,

which limits service effectiveness. By itself, this may not warrant an expansion or replacement

facility given budget restrictions. However, east of S.E. 14th

Street (U.S. Highway 69), is a

sizable residential area with an estimated population of 18,000 persons which is underserved or

unserved due to the distance from the South Side Library or any other DMPL facility. This area

is composed of Pioneer Park, River Woods, Ewing Woods Evergreen, and Easter Lake

neighborhoods.

The dominant market segments for this part of the city as identified by the Tapestry software for

the strategic plan are as follows:

Aspiring Young Families - Mostly in the River Woods, Ewing Woods and Evergreen

neighborhoods.

Up and Coming Families - Primarily in the Easter Lake neighborhood, but also in the

Southwestern Hills neighborhood north of the airport.

Crossroads - In two areas east of S.E. 14th

Street. One in the far

southeast corner of the city, the other in the area

surrounding Pioneer Park.

There has been some community interest expressed in developing an additional branch to serve

this underserved constituency, but adding another branch at this time would impose additional

operational costs upon the Des Moines Public Library when its operations budget is severely

constrained.

A more effective course would be replacing the present South Side Library with a new, larger

area library at a location which would meet the service needs of existing clientele as well as those

residents living east of S.E. 14th

Street. The replacement would enable the transfer of existing

library staff to the new facility and would result in lower operating costs than two buildings


would incur. The service areas of a facility further east and north of the current branch would

reach an estimated population of 52,000 residents—in size comparable to that of the

Franklin Avenue Library. As such, a new South Side Library should be sized comparably to the

28,590 square foot Franklin Avenue Library and function as an area library.

Site Selection

If a new South Side Library were to be constructed, proper site location would be critical to its

effectiveness. Site Selection for libraries shares many of its criteria with commercial and retail

establishments. To achieve maximum effectiveness, libraries must be placed in a highly visible

and accessible location. Major factors to consider in library site selection are as follows:

- The site should ideally be well centered on its primary service area.

- The site should provide adequate space for the required facility and for future expansion.

- The site should be owned by the City to protect against the vagaries of leasing, change of

ownership, and facilities management.

- The site should be near other traffic generating activities, such as a school or shopping

district.

- Proximity to other present or planned library facilities must be considered. Generally, a 2-

3 mile service radius should be maintained, unless special conditions apply, such as high

population density, or physical barriers.

- The site should be located on or close to a major roadway, ideally near a traffic junction.

- The site cost must be compared to that of other potential sites.

Locating a new South Side Library more to the northeast of its current location, perhaps near the

intersection of S.E. 14th

Street and East McKinley Avenue would be one such location. A site of

6 acres or larger would be required.

Locating a new South Side Library branch in the partially vacant South Ridge Mall has been

proposed as one option; however, this will likely prove a less effective site than one farther north

and closer to the center of the South Side Library service area. The South Ridge Mall is located

too close to the south city border. While this would most benefit those persons living in the

incorporated areas south of Des Moines, it would not be to the best advantage of the residents of

South Des Moines.

The time frame for funding, planning, and constructing a new 30,000 square foot area library will

be extended – likely a 3 to 4 year process. In the interim, in order to provide library services to


the southeast areas of Des Moines, primarily the Pioneer Park, River Woods, Ewing Woods

Evergreen, and Easter Lake neighborhoods, a temporary 5,000 to 10,000 square foot storefront

library in leased space in Pioneer Park, River Woods, Ewing Woods Evergreen, and Easter Lake

neighborhoods should be pursued. Ideally it should be located in the general vicinity of the site

selected for the permanent facility.


Construct a new 30,000 square foot replacement South Side Library in the vicinity of the

intersection of S.E. 14th

Street and McKinley Avenue.

Cost Detail

30,000 sq. ft. Construction Cost @ $300 per sq. ft. $9,000,000

Design/Permitting (10% of Construction) $ 900,000

Furniture/Equipment @ $50 per sq. ft. $1,500,000

Contingency $ 900,000

2 years inflation (8%) $1,000,000

Land Acquisition Variable

Total Estimated Cost of Recommended Action

$13,300,000 plus cost of land acquisition for 6+ acres

Estimated Additional Annual Operating Costs

$680,000 (Assumes staffing equal to Franklin Avenue Branch and relocation of current

South Side Branch staff and transfer of current South Side Library collection and materials

budget.)

Lease 5,000 to 10,000 square feet of commercial storefront property for the operation of

temporary public library services until a new area library is constructed nearby.

Estimated Additional Annual Operating Costs @ $12 per sq. ft. lease cost

5,000 Square Feet Facility $110,000

10,000 Square Foot Facility $200,000


Public Library Kiosks

An additional supplementary service option might be the use of free-standing unmanned kiosks

placed in either a location with high customer traffic, such as a shopping mall, or in a remote

location where placing a manned facility may not be cost effective. At kiosks, library users can

access the library catalog, place and pick up holds, return library materials, manage their library

account, access library on-line resources, receive library staff assistance remotely (via e-mail,

telephone, or instant messaging), download electronic media, and surf the web , among other

things. Turnkey library kiosks are marketed commercially, but can initially cost up to $200,000,

and nearly $15,000 a year to support. However, a number of these services can now be provided

by the Des Moines Public Library in the home or office through its virtual library. Support issues

that have plagued kiosks, giving them a checkered past with other libraries, recommends that they

not be proposed as an alternative to new library facilities. However, they may be an option in

selected circumstances as a supplementary service.

The cost effectiveness of unmanned kiosks are problematic, so DMPL might employ a kiosk at a

location on a test basis to determine if the customer use warrants placing kiosks at additional sites.

Summary

As the peer libraries comparison on page 2 of this document demonstrates, the Des Moines Public

Library provides a creditable amount of library space for city residents. Basing this calculation

only on the populations of cities of Des Moines and Windsor Heights is somewhat misleading

since DMPL also is impacted by use from the surrounding suburbs and unincorporated areas.

Nevertheless the library system currently ranks well with other peer libraries. As such, given

present economic realities for the City of Des Moines, most of the recommendations in this plan

for branches are modest at this time.

The notable exception is the South Side Library. It is clear that several neighborhoods in the

southeast area of the city are underserved due to their distance from the present South Side

Branch. To address this situation, rather than building and operating a seventh branch, this plan

proposes a solution that should prove more cost effective in annual operating costs. The plan

recommends replacing the current South Side Library with a new 30,000 square foot area library

similar to the recently renovated and expanded Franklin Avenue Library, and locating it so that it

can effectively serve both the existing South Side Library constituencies and the currently

unserved neighborhoods in Southeast Des Moines.

The recommendations in this plan address the most immediate needs of the Des Moines Public

Library, but the library system also must respond to the needs of a growing population beyond the

next five years. Currently the City of Des Moines is in the midst of planning for the future and

will be soon issuing the “Tomorrow Plan.” In 2011, Gruen Gruen + Associates provided a study


to the city entitled “Existing Conditions Analysis and Baseline Projections for the Tomorrow

Plan.” The study addressed future population projections in terms of Metropolitan Des Moines

which it termed the Regional Plan for Sustainable Development (RSPD) Planning Area including

several suburban areas. Overall, the study projects that the entire RSPD Planning Area

population will increase by over 73,500 residents (15.3%) from 2010 to 2020. However, the

study subdivides the RSPD Planning area into seven zones – three for the suburbs and four for the

City of Des Moines. When the suburbs are excluded, the population growth for Des Moines is

projected at 12% between 2010 and 2020. Even further out to the year 2050, the city’s population

growth is projected to exceed 45%.

Beyond the scope of this five year plan, the Des Moines Public Library System must prepare to

meet the future needs of its growing clientele. With the construction of a new South Side Area

Library, DMPL will be well placed to provide quality services in South Des Moines, as well as

the central business district with the Central Library, and the northwest with the Franklin Avenue

Library. With the needs of these areas met, DMPL should address the needs of the east and north

parts of the city in the next five year plan by expanding the concept of large areas libraries to

those areas.

The following table summarizes the recommendations contained in this five year facilities plan:

Facility Recommendations Capital

Costs

Additional

Annual Costs Central

Library

Expand children’s area, relocate book sale area,

various internal improvements

130,000 Not applicable

East Side

Library Relocate and expand teen area, replace check-out

desk, various internal/external improvements


Forest Avenue

Library Replace external pylon sign, consider consolidating

into new Area library w/North Side Library in next 5

year plan


Franklin Avenue

Library

Upgrade lighting, modify check-out desk, add LCD

Screen


North Side

Library None, consider consolidating into new area library

w/Forest Avenue Library in next 5 year plan

None until

next 5 year

plan

Not applicable

South Side

Library Replace with a new 30,000 sq. ft. area library located

to better serve underserved neighborhoods

$13,300,000

& acquisition

of 6+ acres

$500,000

Temporary

Storefront

Library

Lease and renovate up to 10,000 square feet of

storefront space until new South Side Library is

completed

300,000 $350,000

Kiosk

Consider placing one self-service kiosk in one

location as test

$290,000 $40,000

Total

Not including land acquisition cost for South Side

Area Library

$14,490,000 $890,000


Appendix A– Calculation of Service Area Demographics

Figures are from the2010 U.S. Census. The “other” category combines three U.S. Census

categories (Other, American Indian/Native Alaskan, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander)

Central Library Primary Service Area

Census

Tract

Total White Black Asian Multi-

Race


27 3477 2094 946 122 139 176 176 1727 1750

29 4250 3546 365 126 171 42 190 2017 2233

32 2589 2449 66 44 23 7 51 1159 1430

40.01 3788 2797 622 74 175 120 327 1747 2041

41 (50%) 1555 1409 45 15 38 48 109 747 808

42 1881 1474 105 49 55 198 382 934 947

43 (50%) 2908 2479 154 79 97 99 307 1423 1485

44 3964 2935 336 135 166 392 771 1975 1989

48 (50%) 1593 862 207 132 45 347 662 812 781

51 4597 3082 975 198 149 193 328 2609 1988

52 3162 1939 404 70 186 563 1095 1640 1522

Total 33764

25066

74.2%

4225

12.5%

1044

3.1%

1244

3.7%

2185

6.5%

4398

13%

16790

49.7%

16974

50.3%

Eastside Library Primary Service Area

Census

Tract


Race


1.01 3448 2693 423 82 162 88 292 1616 1832

1.02 3921 3545 141 88 80 67 259 1911 2010

1.03 2465 2238 49 48 62 68 151 1236 1229

2.01 2815 2255 159 191 90 120 260 1337 1478

2.02 3526 2991 170 99 121 145 341 1717 1809

3 4027 3046 475 202 124 180 424 1787 2240

17 2584 803 1048 286 108 339 661 1208 1376

18 2015 1703 95 30 36 151 250 1011 1004

19 4233 3713 166 76 111 167 431 2118 2115

21 4879 3966 208 149 160 396 891 2424 2455

54 2755 2133 188 130 95 209 472 1397 1358

Total 36668

29086

79.3%

3122

8.5%

1381

3.8%

1149

3.1%

1930

5.3%

4432

12.1%

17762

48.4%

18906

51.6%

Note: A small portion of Census Tract 106 also falls within the East Side Library Primary

Service Area, but nearly all that tract’s population falls outside the city limits of Des

Moines, therefore, it is not included for the purposes of this calculation.


Forest Avenue Library Primary Service Area

Census

Tract


Race


11 (50%) 2638 1694 445 186 96 217 527 1262 1376

12 3474 962 1466 288 215 543 884 1636 1838

26 2222 1146 610 138 120 208 407 1143 1079

48 (50%) 1594 862 208 131 46 347 662 813 781

49 2159 1172 400 161 56 370 607 1083 1076

50 4076 1303 1523 494 232 524 982 2094 1982

Total 16163

7139

44.2%

4652

28.8%

1398

8.6%

765

4.7%

2209

13.7%

4069

25.2%

8031

49.7%

8132

50.3%

Franklin Avenue Library Primary Service Area

Census

Tract


Race


7.01 3219 1642 862 438 138 139 295 1554 1665

7.03 3081 2775 155 59 53 39 128 1512 1569

7.04 3053 2553 231 112 86 71 174 1458 1595

8.01 5986 4829 597 156 194 210 365 2904 3082

8.02 3445 3177 102 61 57 48 96 1632 1813

8.03 4075 3466 252 119 119 119 261 2044 2031

9.01 3370 3048 127 74 62 59 135 1616 1754

9.02 3257 3071 90 30 52 14 73 1481 1776

10 4636 3736 388 249 148 115 241 2202 2434

11 (50%) 2638 1695 445 185 96 217 527 1262 1376

28 3473 2779 299 151 144 100 229 1765 1708

30.01 1997 1850 45 17 56 29 78 961 1036

30.02 3316 3161 41 43 58 13 59 1601 1715

31 1800 1680 17 26 51 26 50 876 924

Windsor

Heights

4860 4429 170 115 80 66 179 2315 2545

Total 52206

43891

84.1%

3821

7.3%

1835

3.5%

1394

2.7%

1265

2.4%

2890

5.5%

25183

48.3%

27023

51.7%


North Side Library Primary Service Area

Census

Tract


Race


4 4786 3643 313 254 156 420 882 2411 2375

5 4500 3249 512 248 187 304 675 2229 2271

6 3802 3113 318 80 137 154 334 1916 1886

7.02 3196 2478 360 205 77 76 179 1570 1626

15 2776 2089 277 118 118 174 351 1353 1423

105 (30%) 1942 1770 97 20 26 29 150 1098 844

Total 21002 16342

77.8%

1877

8.9%

925

4.4%

701

3.3%

1157

5.5%

2571

12.2%

10577

50.4%

10425

49.6%

Note: Although the population of Census Tract 105 largely resides in unincorporated

Polk County, approximately 30% of that tract’s population is assigned to the North

Side Library service area because of close proximity to the library and because the

Des Moines Public Library is contractually obligated to serve residents of

unincorporated Polk County.

Southside Library Primary Service Area

Census

Tract


Race


40.04 3219 2924 119 60 74 42 122 1560 1659

41 (50%) 1555 1410 45 15 37 48 110 746 809

43 (50%) 2909 2479 155 78 98 99 308 1423 1486

45.01 4091 3154 307 291 137 202 491 2011 2080

45.02 2470 2175 76 84 71 64 148 1158 1312

46.02 6580 5027 555 185 308 505 1036 3152 3428

46.03 3683 3236 156 95 93 103 270 1768 1915

47.01 4278 3620 166 100 148 244 702 2135 2143

47.02 2614 2001 277 89 89 158 352 1432 1182

201

(70%)

1569 1483 14 15 27 30 66 780 789

Total 32968

27509

83.4%

1870

5.7%

1012

3.1%

1082

3.3%

1495

4.5%

3605

10.9%

16165

49%

16803

51%


Note: Small portions of Census Tracts 203 and 204 are within Des Moines city borders

and might also fall within the South Side Library Primary Service Area, but they

are currently not populated. Some unincorporated parts of these two tracts farther

south are populated but are too distant to be included in the South Side primary

service area.

An estimated 30% of the population of Census Tract 201 is distant enough from

the South Side Library to be considered outside its primary service area and should

be considered unserved. In addition, Census Tracts 39.01, 39.02, and 108.02 are

so far east and northeast of the South Side Library location as to be considered

unserved as well. The combined population of these areas is estimated at 18,000

residents.

Documents

DES MOINES PUBLIC LIBRARY STRATEGIC PLAN APPENDIX … · Des Moines Public Library Facilities Master Plan, 2013 7 Opening in 2006, the Central Library is a signature building with