LIBRARY BUILDING REQUIREMENTS

Library Building Requirements*

·       Minimum 2,500 square feet on one floor

·       Floor loading to support the weight of materials and shelving at 150 lbs per sq. ft

·       Shelving for up to 10,000 items (9,800 items are currently assigned to the Hantsport Library excluding magazines) Collection space at 10 volumes per sq. ft.

·       Circulation desk, seating and tables

·       Lighting standards of 30 - 70 foot candles for reading and studying

·       Clear sightlines for staff so they can effectively monitor public spaces

·       Barrier-free physical access with ramps, doors and walkways for all users

·       Wheelchair accessible washroom

·       Program Room of a minimum of 300 sq. ft.

·       Parking for users and staff

·       Adequate external lighting to ensure the safety of users and staff

·       Technology infrastructure to support phone, internet, and electrical demands

·       Heating, cooling, and ventilation system to ensure humidity control to prevent damage to books

·       Prominent and regularly services fire extinguishers, smoke alarms and exit signs

·       A location that is near the centre of Town  with external visibility

·       A dedicated library entrance would be ideal

*Taken from Standards for Nova Scotia Regional Public Libraries