Texas Public Library Standards

Facility Standards

Library facility standards are based on the library’s mission statement and service goals.

Major service factors to consider in developing a facility plan are: collection size, use of technology, adult and children’s programming, seating, and meeting room space.

Architectural formulas for space allocation described in Appendix B should be used to determine actual facility size and design.

In addition, the following list should be utilized in developing a future facility plan or evaluating an existing facility so that the library will:

• Comply with federal, state and local building codes, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Texas Architectural Barriers Act (TABA);
• Have emergency manual and disaster plan;
• Review existing and future facilities to provide a safe, secure environment;
• Have a plan and annual budget for the maintenance of building and grounds;
• Have convenient and adequate parking based on applicable building codes and anticipated usage;
• Have an exterior sign identifying the facility as a library that is clearly visible from the street;
• Feature well designed signs and graphics including the display of the International Symbol of Accessibility, where appropriate;
• Incorporate changes to existing and future libraries to move toward sustainable buildings by addressing environmental issues, e.g. conserving water, using recyclable materials;
• Have adequate provision for current and future electrical, data and telephone connections;
• Have controlled temperatures and humidity for the benefit of users and staff as well as the protection of library property;
• Have adequate interior and exterior lighting in all areas;
• Have an after hours book return that is fireproof in a safe, well-lit area;
• Have furnishings and equipment adequate to the needs of users and staff;
• Have adequate space to meet its service, operation and storage needs;
• Have adequate noise control;
• Have meeting space available for library programming and for use by community groups, if such is a part of the library’s plan;
• Be located and designed with input from all stakeholders, including users, staff, and governing officials, and provide accessibility to the greatest number of users; and
• Review space needs assessment every five years.

Collection Standards | Finance Standards

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