The Core Partners (Nevada County, Town of Truckee, and Friends of the Truckee Library) are thrilled to announce the successful completion of the first round of community input for the new Truckee Regional Library design. The remarkable turnout, with approximately 1,500 participants contributing through online surveys, in-person events, and paper surveys, will play a direct role in shaping the new library's design, ensuring it reflects the heart and soul of the community.
Community Input Overview:
Between June 1 and July 15, the Library Core Partners reached out to gather design ideas from the community, asking participants to share their top priorities for both indoor and outdoor amenities. The response was overwhelming and deeply appreciated, showcasing the community's dedication to creating a space that everyone can enjoy.
Top Priorities Identified:
Indoor Library Spaces:
- Books for all ages
- Art + Culture
- Community Events
- Children’s Programming and Play
- Creating + Making
- Gaming
Outdoor Amenities:
- Walking + Bike Paths
- Public Plaza + Special Events
- Children’s Programs
- Cultural Events
Impact on Library Design:
The feedback received is invaluable. It highlights what the community values most and will guide the creation of a library that truly serves its needs. For instance, the desire for diverse programming, from art and culture to children's activities, underscores the need for flexible, multi-use spaces. The emphasis on walking and bike paths and public plazas reflects a community that cherishes outdoor gatherings and activities.
Thanks to this input, the architectural team is already incorporating these priorities into the design plans. The voices of the community are shaping a library that will be a vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming space for all.
Dawn Merkes of Group 4 Architecture, Research + Planning, Inc. stated, “The input received from the community in the first round of community engagement will be integrated into the building program and design. The unique priorities of the Truckee community, collected in the first-round survey, emphasize the importance of both traditional library services such as books for everyone which was the highest priority, and nontraditional library services such as art and culture which was the second highest priority. Having the community’s input in the design phases of the new Library is an essential step in designing a new 21st-century library that reflects and celebrates the unique values and priorities of the Truckee community.”
Next Steps:
Building on this positive momentum, the second round of the survey will be launched, focusing on the exterior design and sustainability of the new library. The online survey will open on Aug. 9 and remain available through September. Additionally, input can be shared in person at the following events:
- August 15 - Truckee Thursdays
- August 21 - Music in the Park
- August 29 - CATT Mixer
- August 31 - Tahoe Mountain Sports Sample Sale
More dates will be announced soon, so stay tuned.
Get Involved:
Community involvement doesn't stop with the surveys. Help is needed to bring this new library to life. The Friends of the Truckee Library are spearheading the volunteer efforts for this grassroots campaign. Interested volunteers can reach out to April Cole at april@truckeefol.org. To support the new library project with a donation, visit www.truckeefol.org/donate.
Thank you for the continued participation and support. Together, a library is being built that will serve the community for generations to come, a place where memories will be made, knowledge will be shared, and dreams will be inspired.
About the new Truckee Regional Library Project:
The new Truckee Regional Library Project aims to design and construct a new state-of-the-art library facility that serves as a vibrant center for literacy, learning, and community engagement in Truckee, CA. Through inclusive and participatory design processes, the project seeks to incorporate the input and ideas of residents to create a space that reflects the unique character and values of the Truckee community.
About the Friends of the Truckee Library:
The Friends of the Truckee Library is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support the cultural, social, and educational wellbeing of the community by advocating for the current Truckee Library and working to build a larger, modern library facility. Leading the effort to build a new regional library and community center, more information can be found at www.truckeefol.org.
