Hancock County Public Library

Client:    Hancock County Public Library
Project:  Hancock County Public Library Main Branch

krM was engaged by the Hancock County Public Library initially to develop a feasibility study that would identify the requirements of the library system. The need for this feasibility study was created by the change from the Greenfield Public Library to a county-wide library system. During the feasibility process, KRM studied the population of the area and suggested that the library may ultimately need up to 90,000 sq. ft. It was also recommended that the library not expand to this size initially because a high percentage of the county was not previously served by the library and the new patrons did not have a history of using the library services.

The primary concepts requested by the library centered on providing as much square footage as possible to meet the demands of the area with a reduction and lack of embellishment of architectural style and features. In general, a balance was found in maximizing square footage while allowing the building to have some architectural style. During the bidding, several alternates were taken to control costs. The site is arranged with a large storm water detention area to the north which will provide for current and future storm water needs as the building is expanded. The site is 10 acres and was purchased from a group that owns a significant portion of the surrounding area.

The building, as designed and constructed, is 39,000-40,000 sq. ft. and allows the footprint to at least double to approximately 80,000 sq. ft. There is also the possibility of a two-story expansion. All of the mechanical services such as gas, electric, etc. are set so that the north face of the building can be removed and the building expanded.