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This presentation provides an in-depth look at the design process and an early modeling analysis contributing to the innovative design of the newly-renovated Midland Library, one of the busiest libraries in Multnomah County. This LEED Gold certified project used library bond funding to completely reimagine the existing library space, while adding approximately 6,000sf to the building at the same time. By prioritizing the needs of the surrounding community and elevating diverse voices during the design process, this project made sure to provide much-needed amenities important to East Portland’s diverse cultures and groups.
Learning Objective 1:
Attendees will be able to describe the project’s community engagement and concept design efforts, giving the community ownership of the library’s design. These efforts include utilizing a Design Justice approach and leaning into community design advocates (CDAs) with deep local connections, aiming to bridge cultural divides and elevate underserved voices, elevating visitors’ sense of community, wellbeing and inclusion.
Learning Objective 2:
Attendees will be able to apply the Library’s mission to put people and communities first and respond to the heard needs of patrons, as they did with flexible workshop areas, expanded community meeting spaces, a new children’s library, a dedicated teen area, a quiet reading room, and a variety of seating and activity zone options.
Learning Objective 3:
Attendees will be able to explore design features that allow the community to enjoy indoor and outdoor spaces, including new dedicated children’s areas indoors for even more learning and play possibilities, as well as sensory rooms dedicated to supporting patrons with diverse sensory needs.
Learning Objective 4:
Attendees will be able to describe how sustainability, energy efficiency, and resiliency were of highest importance to the design features. Midland Library reduced its impact by reusing much of the existing building structure and facades. The building also boasts highly efficient mechanical and plumbing systems as well as low emitting materials which contribute to indoor air quality.
Presenters
Kate Vance, capital bond program manager, Multnomah County
Kate Vance is an experienced Senior Project Manager in the higher education industry. When voters approved ~$450M bond program in Nov 2020 to renovate and expand 7 branch libraries, build a new flagship, and create a new materials handling and distribution center, Kate had the privilege to develop the Program Management Office, manage the program budget and schedule, oversee the design and construction of the physical built environment, and work closely with Library peers representing Multco's Department of County Assets.
Elin Shepard, outreach manager, Energy Trust New Buildings
As an outreach manager for Energy Trust’s New Buildings program, Elin Shepard works with government and education projects through utility programs to maximize energy efficiency and incentives in new construction and major renovations. Previously working for the Oregon Department of Administrative Services for 15 years, Elin led the charge to infuse a culture of sustainability in state government operations through legislation, statewide policy and inter-governmental coordination. She received a B.A. from Oregon State University and is a Certified Energy Manager® and LEED AP BD+C certified. A former president and board member of Oregon APEM, Elin is the current vice president and CWEEL liaison of the AEE Columbia River Chapter, and the president of the Sustainable Living Center at Pringle Creek Community in Salem.
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