Book Description

Written from the perspective of staff members who worked in the Williamsburg Regional Library system during four years of multiple construction projects, this fresh and straight-on text covers both new construction and renovation and additions. The results at Williamsburg are exemplary (one patron commented, "The building is a wedding of books and light, which gives wings to the spirit"). As the Williamsburg staff relates their experiences, the reader is guided through the construction. The book, a collaborative effort of the library's staff, shares directly with the reader the knowledge gained in the process: the reality of costs in choosing priorities, working with architects, contractors, and project managers, patron considerations, and technology upgrades. Also included are ideas for celebratory events, fundraising, and interaction with boards of directors and local government in building a "team." Appendices conclude the work with a summary timeline, technology specifications, and useful charts.