by Gretel Stock-Kupperman, MLS

When you think of a library renovation, major changes and upheaval come to mind.  But, as the recent Palos Park Public Library http://www.palosparklibrary.org/ renovation shows, sometimes the small changes make a big difference to the community.

The Palos Park Public Library is nestled on the west side of the village within a picturesque copse of trees.  The whole village resides within the woods of the Cook County Forest Preserve, and feels removed from the nearby suburban landscape.  The library was built in 1982, renovated in 1993, and serves its population of about 4600 in just 6000 square feet.  Until recently, the library retained much of its original furnishings and space arrangement, packing shelving and materials alongside orange-upholstered chairs made for a dark, dated look.  The window treatments and furniture also didn’t take advantage of the natural light and views afforded by the library’s unique location.

In January 2009, the Palos Park Board passed its strategic plan.  One of the major goals was that “Community members will have attractive, comfortable and welcoming physical places to meet and interact with others or to sit quietly and read.”  The library wanted to enhance the environment of the library, and make the building attractive while maintaining its uniqueness.

In February, library director Sheila Sosnicki selected Library Furniture International (LFI) to conduct the renovation at Palos Park.  Sheila was impressed with their work at the Frankfort and Green Hills Public Library Districts, and wanted their unique perspective on how to renovate Palos Park.  Tiffany Nash, designer consultant for LFI, immediately connected to what the community needed in their library : “to bring the outside in.”

Over the course of the next few months, work was underway.  Skender Facilities Group performed the minor construction, demolition, and carpeting.  One small wall was taken down to open up a former closet/office into more shelving space, new shelving went up in the children’s area, the magazine area, and near the computers in front of the library.  Carpeting and furniture were changed in the children’s area and window treatments were updated throughout.  New seating was also added near the magazines to make a more inviting area to overlook the natural beauty of the library’s forested “back yard.”

The new look is striking, and integrates new and old furniture into the same space.  Existing shelving works well with new furniture and fixtures, and tiled transition areas make the changes in flooring blend well.  The library feels brighter, looks fresh, and is more open thanks to better use of natural lighting and space.  The older furniture in good condition was moved to the multipurpose meeting/study area, and adds some more comfortable seating to where only tables and chairs existed before.

Patrons have definitely noticed the changes in the library.  Kids tell library staff that they “are going to stay in the library” now, and staff have noticed more patrons using the space rather than just coming and going.  Traffic has increased due to the changes, and the concept of bringing the outside in has been noticed by all.  The best comment comes from the Mayor of Palos Park, John Mahoney:  “The changes aren’t so big at its core, but it really makes such a difference in the library.”

Sheila says that more improvements will be on the way in the future, but is happy that these small steps have shown so much success.  The renovation at Palos Park is a perfect example of how small changes can make a big impact on the community.  For a relatively small cost, this small space was transformed into a warmer, more welcoming location while still retaining its unique community charm. 

For more information contact Sheila Sosnicki at ssosnicki@palosparklibrary.org.

Published December 16, 2009 in vol. 3, iss. 24 [View]