Hester Street is leading the facilities and operations master planning process for the Rochester Public Library system to uphold Rochester’s 10 library branches as community anchors for the long term. We conducted an extensive review of existing facility plans, research gaps and opportunities for improvement and cull best practice from peer libraries. We engaged RPL staff, stakeholders and users through interviews, surveys, small and large group meetings, public workshops and surveys to collect and analyze needs and priorities for the library system.
We produced an action matrix with design recommendations unique to existing and new facilities, as well as a planning and architectural report with steps for implementation. The final master plan will enhance library services, improve operating efficiencies and address physical deficiencies to plan for the library’s future growth and expanded role as a vital community resource.