HomeMy WebLinkAbout451194 AARON COHEN ASSOCIATES - CONTRACT - RFP - P1142 LIBRARY FACILITIES MASTER PLANAARON COHEN ASSOCIATES LTD
159 Teatown Road
Croton -on -Hudson, NY 10520
City of Fort Collins
Purchasing Division
215 North Mason St., 2Id Floor
Fort Collins, CO 80524
Subject: Request for Proposal
P1142 - Library Facilities Master Plan
Dear Sir:
Tel: (914) 271-8170
Fax: (914) 271-2434
E-mail: aca2008(a)acohen.com
http://www.acohen.com
August 28, 2008
We are pleased to submit our proposal to provide a comprehensive Facilities Master Plan for the
Fort Collins Regional Library District.
Over the last 35 years, Aaron Cohen Associates has worked on numerous library projects involving
Strategic Long -Range Plans and Facilities Master Plans. Our firm consists of a Consultant Team
that has the experience to provide all of the requirements requested in the RFP.
Should we be selected, we will fully comply with all necessary applicable laws and regulations, and
will provide the appropriate certificates to satisfy the necessary insurance requirements, including
professional liability insurance.
If you have any questions or desire additional information concerning our proposal, please do not
hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,
Aaron Cohen, A.I.A.
Project Manager & Principal Contact
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
developing online databases, network software and offline distribution systems, and, as a member
of Aaron Cohen Associates LTD, has a strong understanding of facilities management. He has
identified key technical hurdles, addressed challenges and provided a platform for forward -thinking.
He has used his abilities on several public and academic library projects, including: Las Vegas -
Clark County Library System, NV; NATO World Headquarters Library, Brussels, Belgium; National
Library of Greece, Athens; King Abdullah University of Science & Technology, Saudi Arabia; Long
Island University, Brookville and Brooklyn, NY; Duquesne University; University of California,
Riverside; U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC; Headquarters Library, McLean, VA;
U.S. Food & Drug Administration, Rockville, MD; National Agricultural Library, Bethesda, MD; Fuller
Theological Seminary, Pasadena, CA; Pennsylvania College of Technology, Williamsport, PA.
Elaine Cohen, MEd, Strategic Planning & Library Consultant, is a behaviorist, educator and
author, best known for her books and articles about libraries, their services and facilities. She
received her M.Ed. at the City University of New York and her B.A. from Skidmore College. She has
written at least 200 library building programs. Her program for Alameda Free Library helped the
library win more than $15 million in a competitive construction grant. She has worked on any
number of library site selection projects, evaluated library buildings and developed strategic and
master facility plans. As a member of Aaron Cohen Associates LTD, her work includes: Buffalo and
Erie County, NY; Bedford Public Library, Bedford, NH; Columbus Public Library, GA; St. Louis
Public Library, St. Louis, MO; Long Island University, Brookville and Brooklyn, NY; Pace University
Law School, NY; Cornell Medical Center, NY; National Library of Singapore. Besides being
coauthor of several books on library facilities, she is the author of a chapter in Using Consultants
in Libraries and Information Centers, a Management Handbook (Greenwood Press). Articles
include: 'Building Trends in Special Libraries" (Library Trends, University of Illinois). A recent
article titled "The Visual Scan and the Design for Future -Oriented Libraries" is in Public Library
Quarterly, November 2005. In tandem with Aaron Cohen, she has led more than 300 space
planning, design, strategic planning and automation workshops including in-house workshops for
clients.
Natalya Palevski, ASID, NCIDQ, Strategic Mapping and Library Consultant, trained as an
architect, is licensed in New York State as an Interior Designer. She received her Bachelor of
Science, Bachelor of Architecture and Masters of Architecture from the Architectural School of the
Institute of Civil Engineering, USSR (now Russia) and an Interior Design Associate Degree from the
New School for Social Research. The U.S. National Council for Interior Design (NCIDQ) has
certified her qualifications. Her areas of expertise include site selection, space planning, and 3D
modeling. As a member of Aaron Cohen Associates LTD for 25 years, she has worked on many
Master Planning studies projects: Las Vegas -Clark County Library System, NV; NATO World
Headquarters Library, Brussels, Belgium; National Library of Greece, Athens; King Abdullah
University of Science & Technology, Saudi Arabia; Columbus Public Library GA; Long Island
University, NY.
Carol Ninkovich, MA, Management Consultant, received her M.A. in French from Loyola
University and B.A. from Mundelein College. She has worked as a bilingual (English/French) project
administrator for a major international engineering firm. In this capacity, she was responsible for
project management — e.g., performing and assisting with all work activities associated with contract
development and administration, including soliciting of proposals/bids, issuing purchase orders, and
maintaining contact with both customers and vendors. As a member of Aaron Cohen Associates
LTD, she has worked on projects such as Las Vegas -Clark County Library System, NV; NATO
World Headquarters Library, Brussels, Belgium; National Library of Greece, Athens; King Abdullah
University of Science & Technology, Saudi Arabia.
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 8 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
C. EXPECTED TIME FRAME FOR FACILITY MASTER PLAN
The proposed time frame for the Facilities Master Plan should be extended to January 2009 in
order to allow for feedback from the Library and review of final draft.
However, the firm of Aaron Cohen Associates has the capability to complet the project by
November 21, 2008, if time is of the essence.
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 9 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
D. PROPOSED PROJECT COST
FEE SUMMARY
WORK SESSIONS #1— 5
Total Consultant Team Fee for Work Sessions #1 - 5 $ 27,100 *
Allowance for not -to -exceed expenses 22,900
TOTAL FEE $ 30,000
* The fee includes one (1) workshop and one (1) open forum. If the scope of work is reduced, the
fee will be adjusted.
The fee covers:
• 48 Consultant hours on -site (two consultants)
Alex Cohen and Aaron Cohen
• 190 Consultant office hours
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD team
Hourly on -site rate is $180 for each Consultant.
Hourly office rate is $100.
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 10 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
DETAILED FEE BREAKDOWN
Consultant
Fees
Travel
TOTAL
WORK SESSIONS
Name
Site
On -Site
On -Site
Office
Office
Sub
Expenses
ALL
COSTS
Visit
Hours
Fee
Hours
Fee
Totals
Site
8
$ 1,440
10
$ 1,000
Work Session #1
Aaron Cohen
Data Gathering/Visual Scan
Alex Cohen
Visit #1
8
$ 1,440
10
$ 1,000
Elaine Cohen
5
$ 500
Natalya Palevski
5
$ 500
Carol Ninkovich
8
$ 800
$ 2,880
$ 3,800
$ 6680
$ 1,360
$ 8,040
Site
4
$ 720
10
$ 1,000
Work Session #2
Short -Term Plan
Aaron Cohen
Alex Cohen
Visit #1
4
$ 720
10
$ 1,000
Elaine Cohen
5
$ 500
Natalya Palevski
5
$ 500
Carol Ninkovich
8
$ 800
$ 1,440
$ 3,800
$ 5,240
$ 5,240
Site 4
$ 720
5
$ 500
Work Session #3
Long -Term Plan
Aaron Cohen
Alex Cohen Visit #1 4
$ 720
5
$ 500
Elaine Cohen
10
$ 1,000
Natalya Palevski
10
$ 1,000
Carol Ninkovich
8
$ 800
$ 1,440
$ 3,800
$ 5,240
E::�
Site
8
$ 1,440
5
$ 500
Work Session it4
Facilities Master Plan
Aaron Cohen
JAlex Cohen
Visit #2
8
$ 1,440
5
$ 500
Elaine Cohen
8
$ 800
Natalya Palevski
10
$ 1,000
Carol Ninkovich
10
$ 1,000
$ 2,860
$ 3,800
$ 6,680
$ 1,000
$ 7,660
$ -
5
$ 500
Work Sessions #5
Final Report
Aaron Cohen
Alex Cohen
5
$ 500
Elaine Cohen
10
Natalya Palevski
10
Carol Ninkovich
8
$ 800
$
$ 3,800
$ 3,800
0
$ 3,800
TOTALFEE
WORK SESSIONS
$ 8,640
��❑❑�
$ 19,000
$ 27,640
$ 2,360
$ 30,000
#1-5
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 11 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
E. DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT APPROACH
Overall Planning Process and Plan
The planning effort will use a multi -faceted process that includes extensive public input as well as
staff participation. Analyses of the Fort Collins Regional Library District's (the District) economic and
demographic setting and trends, financial implications of the library system's services and priorities
and its utilization and allocation of resources in crucial areas will be addressed in accordance with
the Request for Proposal.
The Facilities Master Plan will involve the following tasks:
• Determine the adequacy of and use of space within the current 3 (three) facilities.
• Project the 10-year library facilities needs for programs, services, budgets and collections.
• Integrate public opinion and conduct open community meetings.
• Identify "triggering" factors: population growth, budget constraints, digital resources, e-books,
technology and communication trends.
• Recommend strategic initiatives and activities to support public service.
• Develop a Facilities Master Plan and analysis of all existing facilities.
• Obtain key data about the Library System's demographics and finances.
• Analyze key library system resources.
Three groups will be involved in the planning process
Library Director, library system department heads and administrators.
Library Board.
The District's Planning Committee.
The user community will have an opportunity to participate in the Needs Assessment Planning
process by completing an in -library survey.
ACA's methodology for the Facilities Master Plan will include the following:
1. Operational Efficiencies — During the library system study, we will strive to uncover ways to
improve facilities and services to the public. The team will examine physical operations such as
circulation, reference and outreach services. We will map patterns of behavior and determine
the optimum service flow. This exercise will help improve the return on investment, enable
innovative solutions and employ cost -saving service delivery methods.
2. Visual Scan —The "visual" portion of the Visual Scan of the library relates to the sense of sight:
to see, to observe. The "scan" portion refers to the act of scanning, a systematic examination of
a prescribed region or space. The Visual Scan involves movement and focusing on space as it
relates to purpose and service. For each library, the Visual Scan will be an evidenced -based
space assessment. It uses performance criteria and measurements to evaluate services,
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 12 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
operations, space needs and the potential for change. We will utilize the "Visual Scan" planning
process to help the community determine the value of the physical space in each of the
libraries. The assessment consists of an objective analysis facilitated by our Consultant Team
and attended by the library staff, library board and community members. It supports quantitative
assessments, such as the measurement of linear feet of shelving, building square footage and
site requirements.
3. Building Program Assessments — Utilizing our design criteria, we will describe the functional
zones along with their corresponding collections, reader seats and staff workstations.
Mapping — Creating GIS (Geographic Information System) representations will help define
geographic areas, population and service trends.
5. Modeling/Floor Plans — Over the past 35 years, we developed a "library" of library buildings.
ACA has worked on more than 500 library schematic designs. The library projects involve
redesign, renovation and new construction. The design criteria for library system's branch
libraries will be evidence -based assessments of functions and services.. For this library system
client, we will create design criteria that include collection, reader seats and operations/staff
profiles, projections and analyses.
6. Design Guidelines — We will outline practical planning requirements - for example, lighting
levels, live floor loading, Green Building credits, ADA requirements, etc. These design
guidelines will help us to create unique service programs for the buildings.
Future Scenario Analysis — Feedback from workshop, Visual Scan, Operational Efficiencies,
on -site meeting agendas (pre- and post -discussions). This will involve a communication plan,
on-line surveys, conference calls, emails and use of both the library system and ACA websites.
We will use the communication plan to gather feedback during the entire planning process.
8. Cost Estimates —Short-range: with limited funds in current operating budget.
Short-range: with limited capital funds.
Long-range: major renovation, redesign, new building capital funds.
9. Review of Facility Floor Plans —We have vast experience reviewing library building plans. We
will examine the floor plans and physical constraints in the existing libraries and address options
for renovation, redesign and reorganization.
10. Review of Technology Plans — We have vast experience reviewing library technology plans.
We will examine the IT plans and physical constraints in the existing libraries and address
options for renovation, redesign and reorganization for the digital age.
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 13 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Work Plan Overview
The focus of the Facilities Master Plan is twofold: (1) to determine optimum use of existing library
facilities (all currently located within Fort Collins City limits) without adding square footage, and (2)
to identify the need for and options to expand library facilities to best meet the service requirements
of the new District's entire 166,000 taxpayers/residents, both within and beyond Fort Collins city
limits.
Following is a work plan that ACA will use to develop a Facilities Master Plan for the District. It will
meet departmental to integrate library services and improve the District's facilities.
The Facilities Master Plan for the District will address three questions:
• Where are we now?
• Where do we want to be?
• How will we get there?
ACA's planning process will address these questions and will include community meetings and
interviews with key library staff and stakeholders in order to learn about the District's needs. We will
work with library staff to incorporate the District's mission and space needs in the preparation of:
• A Facilities Master Plan study.
• Floor layouts for each library that redefine the spaces.
• Current facility renovation, expansion or replacement for each of the libraries.
• A phased implementation Facility Plan:
- Past/present needs
- Present/future needs — 1 to 3 years
- Future needs — 3 to 10 years
Goals of the Studv
• A Master Facilities Plan that encompasses the District's core values and service needs of
the community.
• Facility design to support the needs of users as a driving force.
• Build on the strength of the staff.
• Take advantage of technology innovatively for joint -use and collaborative projects.
• Financial planning and phased implementation for construction over the next 10 years.
• Potential future sites.
• Fundraising recommendations.
Managing the Planning Process
With the assistance of the District Planning Committee and key stakeholders, ACA will manage the
Planning Process, including:
• Coordinating the overall process to meet deadlines, assure positive communications and
anticipate and resolve potential problems before they arise, if possible.
• Preparing background information before each meeting and meeting minutes afterwards.
• Facilitating meetings to ensure effective participation and efficient use of time.
• Submitting timely reports for distribution to the appropriate stakeholders.
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 14 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Delivering password protected documents via a project website, enabling participants to
share files easily.
Communicating regularly with the District Planning Committee via phone, e-mail, fax and/or
mail.
Communications
ACA will employ a number of strategies to incorporate the District's community and staff "voices"
and keep staff and stakeholders both inside and outside the District informed during the Facilities
Master Plan process.
Scope of Work
Work Session #1 — Data Gathering & Visual Scan° (Site Visit #1)
Data Gathering and Visual Scat?:
• Introduction: Meeting to discuss the mission of the District; review of Strategic Plan;
observation of existing conditions.
• Meetings with the District Planning Committee and key stakeholders.
Visual Scan° of Library Facility and Services:
• Gather data on the library's collection, user seating and staff requirements.
• Observe existing conditions at each of the District's three (3) locations.
• Meet with Library staff and department heads as part of the facilities tour.
• Tour each facility and interview key staff
Work Session #2 — Short -Term Plan (Site Visit #1)
Where are we now? Past and present needs. ACA will conduct a Facility Needs Assessment
Workshop that will address the following:
• How to best use the existing library systems spaces during the next five to ten years.
• Define refurbishments, remodeling and/or a renovation projects.
• Determine capital needs for the existing Main Library.
• Review "planning for results" documentation and develop service profiles associated
• with future facilities needs.
- Staffing Profile.
- Collection Profile.
• Operations/Services Profile
Workshop Outline:
1. Community Needs
Here, GIS mapping and demographic data of the geographic areas can help to define
community needs. If the District cannot provide ACA with GIS representations illustrating
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 15 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
geographic area, population and service trends for each of the three (3) locations, ACA can
provide the service at a fee to be negotiated. At the workshop, we will review the following
information:
- Demographic information; population growth.
- Needs of the community.
- Age and condition of the library.
- Needs of residents: existing library, proposed project.
- Appropriate site.
- 5-mile radius for service.
2. Issues to be Explored — What are the identifying "triggering" factors that impact
services/operations?
- Population growth.
- Rates of change.
- Budget constraints.
- E-books.
- Digital contents.
- Information technology.
- Mobile reference services.
- Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology.
- Efficiency opportunity.
- Centralized or decentralized services or a combination of both.
3. Analysis of Library Service Needs
- Collections.
- Reader seating and computer seating.
- Staff work areas/operations; technology.
- Meeting rooms and/or group study rooms and/or quiet study.
- Special purpose space — Homework Center.
- Space for library services that are needed but not currently available.
- Cafe.
Work Session #3 — Long -Term Plan (Site Visit #1)
Where do we want to be? Present and future service and space needs. ACA will develop an
innovative roadmap to define and improve all library facilities, and will address the following:
Community meetings — One (1) open forum for community stakeholders to address
anticipated space needs, services and operations.
Community input for short-range present/future renovation and long-range future facilities.
The determination of whether a facility should be renovated or rebuilt will be based on the
following observations and criteria:
- Visual Scan° or tour of the library facility.
- Space needs for:
o Collection
o User seating
o Staff/operations
o Technology needs
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 16 08128/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Whether space within a library can support services such as:
o Children
o Young Adult
o On-line Reference
o Adult
o Programming
Feedback from community stakeholders regarding services.
The best geographic locations and size for potential new facilities to serve the District's
population.
The optimal size of the Main Library and Branches.
Review existing facility floor plans and the most up-to-date drawings available for Main,
Harmony and Carnegie facilities
Preliminary Block Layouts of current and future functional uses of space.
Identify potential remodeling and/or refurbishment projects and address the following
issues:
o Review current collection spaces; density, shelf heights and access and provide
recommendations for layout improvement and optimal collection sizes.
o Review current operations; circulation work, holds areas, security gates and self -
check stations. Provide recommendations for improvements.
o Identify potential new program, meeting, seating/reading and study spaces and make
recommendations for improving existing ones.
o Examine the layout of the children's space in the Main library and recommend
improvements to accessibility, shelving layout and approachability/visibility from the
entrance.
o Make recommendations regarding the current and potential future uses of existing
branch library spaces.
o Identify potential "green" building opportunities.
o Review and recommend improvements to existing library staff work spaces
Submit questions pertaining to facility development to gain public input through a survey
to be conducted by a local marketing firm.
Deliverables - Work Sessions #1-3:
• Visual Scan°.
• Workshop.
• Short-range plan.
• Long-range plan.
• One (1) community open forum.
• On-line conference calls.
• Interviews with key staff.
Work Session #4 — Facilities Master Plan (Site Visit #2)
How do we get there? The Facilities Master Plan will address future space and service needs.
ACA will provide a Facility Program that defines outline space requirements for each of the
library's three (3) location.
Deciding whether a facility will need to be renovated, expanded or replaced will be based on
determining:
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 17 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A.
FIRM INFORMATION...........................................................................................................1
FirmLocation.............................................................................................................................................1
FirmOverview...........................................................................................................................................1
FirmQualifications.....................................................................................................................................2
B.
EXPERIENCE OF PROPOSED PROJECT TEAM...............................................................4
Similar Library Facility Planning Projects..................................................................................................4
TeamResumes.........................................................................................................................................7
C.
EXPECTED TIME FRAME FOR FACILITY MASTER PLAN................................................9
D.
PROPOSED PROJECT COST...........................................................................................10
E.
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT APPROACH.......................................................................12
Overall Planning Process and Plan.........................................................................................................12
Methodology............................................................................................................................................12
WorkPlan Overview................................................................................................................................14
Scopeof Work.........................................................................................................................................15
Responsibilities of Library System Staff..................................................................................................19
F.
OTHER INFORMATION.....................................................................................................20
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page i 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
The optimal geographic distribution of library facilities, including drop-off box locations in
the District, taking into account current usage patterns, current facilities locations and
current and projected future population distribution.
The future amount of space needed for library facilities based on district population and
growth patterns. ACA will provide growth options, such as a centralized vs. branch
library system, for branch libraries, expansion of the existing facilities, potential use of
the Carnegie Building, and space needs for Technical Services and the Friends of the
Library.
The options for improvements in a phased approach. The master plan will include short-
term and long-range facilities recommendations.
• ACA will draft a preliminary report of recommendations for consideration by District staff and
the Board of Trustees.
• ACA will provide preliminary cost estimates for reorganization or renovation of the three (3)
facilities.
Deliverables — Work Session #4:
• Site Visit.
• Draft Facilities Master Plan.
• On-line conference calls.
• Diagrams for each of the three (3) locations. These diagrams may not be to scale and will
be based on information supplied to ACA by the District.
Work Session #5 — Final Report - Deliverables
Final Report will include:
• Visual Scan° of the District's three (3) facilities.
• Facilities Master Plan.
• Preliminary cost preliminary cost estimates for reorganization or renovation of the three (3)
facilities.
• Optimal distribution of library services.
• Funding options for recommended improvements.
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 18 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Responsibilities of Library System Staff
The District Planning Committee responsibilities
- To be available at each of the consultant's two (2) site visits.
- Provide demographic data and collection information in terms of linear feet of shelving for
each of the three (3) facilities.
- Provide floor plans for each of the three (3) facilities.
- Provide information electronically: emails, web, support gathering of survey information.
- Aid in developing online surveys.
- Provide feedback after each of the two (2) site visits from Board and Staff.
- With ACA, develop a planning schedule with targets and milestones.
- Coordinate with ACA workshop and one (1) public forums.
• Board
- Provide feedback to the District Planning Committee.
- Meet with consultants during each of the two (2) site visits.
• Staff
- Appropriate staff to attend one (1) workshop and one (1) public forums.
- Meet with consultants during the on -site review of each of the facilities.
- Provide feedback to the District Planning Committee
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 19 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
F. OTHER INFORMATION
Project Sheets
- Barnstable (Town of) Libraries, MA.
- Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, NY.
- Columbus Public Library, GA.
- Las Vegas -Clark County Library District, NV.
- Spokane Public Library, WA.
Selected List of Work — Public Libraries
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 20 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Projects by Aaron Cohen Associates, Library Consultants
Project Name & Location:
Barnstable (Town of) Libraries
Town of Barnstable, MA
Nature of Firm's Responsibility:
Library Macro Studies for Town of Barnstable's
Seven Libraries
Project Completion Date:
2004
Contact Person:
Sue Martin, Director, Marstons Mills Public Library,
Tel. (508) 420-0224
Email: martin@skmassociates.net
The Town of Barnstable retained Aaron Cohen Associates to conduct a study of its libraries and recommend actions to
improve the effectiveness and efficiency of its libraries, standardize practices and procedures, benchmark with other
communities, and recommend a formula for the eqp ilable distribution of funds.
Within the Town are seven independent, non-profit library corporations or associations that provide library service. They
cooperate with each other as they can and try to share resources when feasible.
The study resulted in strategic recommendations that were based on the Consulting Team's data gathering,
observations and information gathered during work sessions with the Town Library Committee, Library Directors and
Town Administration. They also represent community feedback acquired during site visits, meetings and interviews.
Within the document, three scenarios for the future are presented:
-Status Quo.
-Working Together,
-Service Center and Community Libraries.
We believe that the "Working
Together" scenario offers the best
way to provide for quality library �r
services while maintaining the S r 4k
"village values' of the Barnstable i Si'
libraries.t
The developed recommendations
are:
• Utilize the Funding Formula for
Implementation FY2007
-The Libraries Work Together
and Share Resources
-Address Governance Issues for
the Town Library Committee
-Conduct a Community Scan
-Create a Five -Year Strategic
Service Plan
• Develop an Organizational Plan
for Each Library
• Provide a Master Plan for
Library Services-
• Develop Technology Plan
• Provide a Facility Study for
Hyannis and Centerville
BARNSTABLE LIBRAR
i OF
5'AWAFT IEcfND.e
,
G•h
wi xI
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 21 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Projects by Aaron Cohen Associates, Library Consultants
Project Name & Location:
Buffalo and Erie County Public Library
Lafayette Square, Buffalo, NY 14202
Nature of Firm's Responsibility:
Strategic Plan, Facility Analysis of 52 Branches
Project Completion Date:
1998
Contact Person:
Daniel L. Walters, Former Library Director
Tel. (702) 507-3610
Email. walleisd@Ivccld.oig
Erie County comprises of one county, three cities, 25 towns, 16 villages, 29 school districts, 49 independent special-
purpose governments, and parts of two Native -American Reservations. As of 1990, Erie County had 968,500
residents. The City of Buffalo had 328,000 and the suburban and rural areas had 640,000 persons. The population of
Erie County is relatively old, aging rapidly and segregated to a high degree by race and to a slightly lesser extent by
class.
Aaron Cohen Associates developed a Strategic Service Plan for 1998-2003. We conducted a comprehensive review
of major challenges that face the library system. The challenges include increasing costs of current services and
demands for improved services as well as the anticipated limits of future operating and capital revenues. An
assessment of all of the 52 facilities has been completed as well as the Strategic Service Plan.
In programmatic sense, the Library
System has historically attempted to
provide complete range of library
services for its patrons. The cost of
library operations today and our
understanding of good service practices
will no longer permit this inclusive goal.
Instead, the Library System will focus
on excelling in the library services,
system structure, and library facilities.
QftANl7 �' �' AtfNfidti Y
U AftU �CR rP! Artf.`(5l_�;.t.
tN!'Vr'ANLA .. � L,..AAEta+:+a N6Y�TEAD
LEGEND SUFALO w
=Lttxary
Locabons
LACKAWANNA
d
8VAfro 11
CHLBK,
TOW
VACASIEB
ALDEN
/'ALL
�,.
I ktCJ lii l<
.r:
1 1i LkA, -
-: V&ST
SEn
16
y�,i\o
IrSU°rM,y �
-y� ORCHARD
1T0 PARK
E:i^4A
DY
ChUP, JF51
AUflOnA
uAh 4LA
�,
...
'.•WALES
VEN
h. 01 I <ujt.LI nS
C QLLIi5
B^JS`ON CCt.6EN WI>LLAND
CONCOAD
;lrtl)!Nih
SPRifJ'':iViL E
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 22 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Projects by Aaron Cohen Associates, Library Consultants
Project Name & Location:
Columbus Public Library
Columbus, GA 31904-4547
Nature of Firm's Responsibility:
Master Plan, Building Program
Project Completion Date:
2005
Contact Person:
Guy Sims, President of United Way, Former
Superintendent of Muscogee County School District
Tel. 706-327-3255
Front Elevation
Interior view
Aaron Cohen Associates Ltd. together with
prominent architectural firm Robert A..M.
Stern Architects was chosen to develop a
Master Plan and Design for new Main
Library in Columbus Georgia.
Columbus Public Library is operated by the Muscogee County School
District. The city of Columbus and Muscogee County occupy the same
geographical area. The Master Plan contains a needs assessment, a
service plan, and a detailed building program, all of which were
created to facilitate the development of design to new Library Building.
The idea was to create a much more efficiently arranged and larger
building than the previous one. Based on upon reorganized and
streamlined operations, the modus operandi of the facility will be to
encourage public use of traditional and innovative services far into this
millennium — fifty years without major renovation. One of the benefits
of the site for the new Central Library is that it is in proximity to several
schools. Indeed, the new building was placed within the City on a
copious site that is central in terms of population and geography.
Containing forty acres, this site is large enough for future expansion of
the building, sufficient parking, and the park.
The new Main Library includes:
✓ More client/user spaces in terms of seating,
interactive computers, meeting and training space.
✓ More collection and display space.
✓ More staff support space, especially as it directly
relates to services.
✓ Efficient spatial organization to enable more
effective operations.
✓ An assumption that the new Main Library will
contain a powerful computer network to support
public and non-public services.
✓ An assumption that the building will be designed
for expansion, should expansion be required many
years hence.
The Master Plan contains a directive to construct a
new Main Library building that can house improved,
streamlined, and innovative library services, and
contain the technologies to deliver them where
feasible throughout the systems it maintains.
Floor Plan
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 23 08/2812008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Projects by Aaron Cohen Associates, Library Consultants
Project Name & Location:
Las Vegas -Clark County Library District
833 Las Vegas Blvd. N. Las Vegas, NV 89101
Nature of Firm's Responsibility:
The Library's Macro Study
Project Completion Date:
2007
Contact Person:
Daniel L. Walters, Executive Director
Tel. (702) 507-3610
r
Email walteigd@Ivccldorg
The focus of the Macro Study was to address the highest traffic area in the
library: the entry and circulation desk area. The Macro Study assessed the redesign
potential for each of the eleven libraries and identified facility redesign challenges
and facility impacts.
For each library redesign, the study explored initiatives to improve staff workflow
and reduce workload. Functions included check-out and check -in of materials,
improving library materials handling processes and simplifying operational
challenges for all LVCCLD libraries.
Rainbow Library
Future Steos:
• Staff acceptance of new/additional responsibilities.
• Training of staff in good advocacy practices, especially to
help public service staff understand the importance of
advocacy. Adequate training facilities for staff and public.
• Clearly defined scope of renovation work and preliminary
estimates for each of the eleven libraries.
Resource Re u uirements:
• Personnel efficiency — These initiatives will succeed with
good staff involvement. Nearly all efficiency initiatives
call for additional redirection of staff efforts.
• Technology — Initiative requirements include a variety of
equipment, computers, RFID tags, and providing all
library locations with wireless access as funds permit.
Funding — Many initiatives will need additional operating
support in order to accomplish stated objectives. Funding
will support staff training and development, architects,
consultants and programming.
Challenges:
• Size and complexity of each of the eleven libraries.
• Space configuration constraints at each of the
branches.
• Significant internal competition for limited resources.
• Cost for adapting current barcode system for self
check-out and check -in and/or cost for implementation
of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID).
• Cost for renovation and reconfiguration of each of the
eleven libraries.
Whitney Library
The District libraries are located in four geographic zones: Northeast, Northwest, Southwest and Southeast. The
renovation and redesign of a branch library may require that it be closed for a short period of time. To limit customer
inconvenience, only one library in each zone should be renovated at one time.
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 24 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Projects by Aaron Cohen Associates, Library Consultants
Project Name & Location:
Spokane Public Library
West 906 Main Street
Spokane, WA 99201
Nature of Firm's Responsibility:
Needs Assessment, Building Program,
Design Guidelines, Interior Design for 5 Library
Branches, Bond Issue
Project Completion Date:
2003
Contact Person:
Dan Walters, former Library Director
Presently Las Vegas -Clark County Library
District Director, Tel. (702) 507-3610
The Spokane Public Library and its five branches consist of 170,000 GSF. Aaron Cohen Associates Ltd.
acted as the Library Program Consultant and Interior Designer for this project: a new Downtown Library
and five (5) branches. Our firm wrote In-depth Building Programs for the Main Library and three Prototype
Branches.
The new Downtown Library has three floors
plus a parking level. It also offers three
public meeting rooms. The total cost of the
Downtown Library was $13,769,986 and was
completed on January 22, 1994, The
Downtown Library was completed on time
and came in $600,000 under budget due to
the efforts in value engineering, costs
analysis, proactive design monitoring. The
funds saved on the Main Library project were
used to expand the size and scope of the
Shadle and South Hill Branch projects and to
enhance the scope and capabilities for a new
central computer system.
Both the exterior and interior of the new
Downtown Library are intended to inspire
citizens, young and old, and offer a setting
in which the hurried and relaxed can readily
locate materials. The new facility is much
more than an information resource. It is a
wellspring of ideas, imagination and
inspiration, as well as a forum for the
exchange of ideas through a variety of
avenues.
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 25 08/28/2008
Selected List of Work — Public Libraries
Alameda Free Library
Alameda, CA
Arlington Public Library
Arlington, MA
Atlanta -Fulton Public Library
Atlanta, GA
Bedford Public Library
Bedford, NH
Berks County Public Library System
Reading, PA
Broward County Library System
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Brown Library
Seabrook, NH
Buffalo & Erie County Public Library
Buffalo, NY
Cambridge Public Library
Cambridge, MA
Chester C. Corbin Public Library
Webster, MA
Chicago Public Library
Chicago, IL
Columbus Public Library
Columbus, GA
East Brunswick Public Library
East Brunswick, NJ
Grand Rapids Public Library
Grand Rapids, MI
Jefferson Parish Library System
Metairie, LA
Kimball Public Library
Atkinson, NH
King County Library System
Seattle, WA
Lane Memorial Library
Hampton, NH
Lane Public Library
Hamilton, OH
Las Vegas -Clark County Library District
Las Vegas, NV
Leominster Public Library
Leominster, MA
Lincolnwood Public Library
Lincolnwood, IL
Manchester Public Library
Manchester, CT
Manhasset Public Library
Manhasset, NY
Monroe Township Free Public Library
Williamstown, NJ
Morse Institute
Natick, MA
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Mountain View Public Library
Mountain View, CA
Newburgh Free Library
Newburgh, NY
New Haven Public Library
New Haven, CT
New York Public Library
Bronx Borough Branch
Mid -Manhattan Branch
Donnell Branch
Research Branch
New York, NY
Plymouth Public Library
Plymouth, MA
Ridgefield Library
Ridgefield, CT
St. Louis Public Library
St. Louis, MO
Saratoga Public Library
Saratoga, NY
Sayville Library
Sayville, NY
Scarborough Public Library
Scarborough, ME
Seekonk Public Library
Seekonk, MA
Shrewsbury Public Library
Shrewsbury, MA
Spokane Public Library
Spokane, WA
Springfield City Library
Springfield, MA
Teton County Library
Jackson, WY
Thomas Crane Library
Quincy, MA
Tompkins County Library System
Ithaca, NY
Town of Barnstable
Hyannis, MA
Waltham Public Library
Waltham, MA
Washoe County Library System
Reno, NV
Westerly Public Library
Westerly, RI
Westhampton Free Library
Westhampton Beach, NY
West New York Free Public Library
West New York, NJ
West Palm Beach Public Library
West Palm Beach, FL
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 26 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
A. FIRM INFORMATION
Firm Location
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD (ACA)
159 Teatown Road
Croton -on -Hudson, NY 10520
Tel: 914-271-8170
Fax: 914-271-2434
Email: aca2008(a)acohen.com
Firm Overview
Aaron Cohen Associates, Ltd. (ACA) is an interdisciplinary library planning firm founded in 1972.
ACA has done Facilities Master Plans for major library systems and consulted on library space
planning and design for new building projects, reorganization efforts and renovations of existing
space. Our firm consists of professional library planners, librarians, architects, interior designers
and organizational management consultants.
We also facilitate planning workshops and stakeholder focus groups to analyze the past, present
and future needs of the community. We have developed over 750 planning studies for Academic,
Public, School, Law, Medical, Art, Corporate and Government Libraries. Our associates hold
professional credentials, have authored five books on library planning and design and have chaired
international associations.
Why hire a library design consultant/planning team? Because we at ACA think outside the box in
creating adaptive library and learning environments. We identify services/operations and functions
in the library (i.e., research, collaborative or quiet seating) and link them into a design concept. We
do qualitative and quantitative research on present and future service functions, new systems and
new spaces. Our skilled professionals have implemented new operational models, materials
management services and green building designs; we've designed collaborative learning spaces.
We specialize in print preservation, information asset management, digital management and
operations. Our asset management services may include self check-out and check -in circulation
systems, as well as preservation methods such as compact storage and automatic retrieval
systems (AS/RS).
Our clients require a good return on investment. In order to deliver a solid result, our team conducts
an environmental scan of existing library services and spaces. We facilitate workshops to identify
the community's needs and determine an appropriate service model. We provide schematic layouts
of collections, user seats and staff areas to test the program needs. The process is part of our
Visual Scan° methodology that engages community stakeholders in observing services and spaces
in the existing library facility and helps them to determine the best course for the future.
Our recognized competencies are:
• Master Facility Plans.
• Strategic Plans.
• Facility Reorganization, Renovation and Design.
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 1 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
• Site Selection.
• Programming.
• Architecture and Interior Design.
• Preliminary Cost Estimating.
• Community Studies.
• Workshops/Focus Groups/Town Meetings.
• Value Engineering.
• Scheduling.
• Marketing Plans/Fundraising.
• Service Plans.
• Operations and Workflow Studies.
• Digital Asset Management.
• Preservation Planning.
• Development of the Learning Commons.
• Systems Integration for Collaborative Learning Environments.
Firm Qualifications
Innovative Library Programs: International library projects have broadened our experience in
planning for service operations and facilities. The outcomes from our 14-year involvement with the
National Library of Singapore reveal how a successful planning project can transform a library and
a system. Whether it is for a large or small library community, our methods are adapted to
determine the best solution. Our building measurements for library services and space types may
include areas for collaboration, scholarly study, information commons, cafes, reference, circulation
and technical services, IT, digitization, cafe and gift shop.
Workshops and Seminars: We lead high-level seminars and workshops devoted to the
improvement of library buildings. They are based on qualitative assessments and studies of user
trends and information technology applications. We show pictures and videos, and analyze
quantitative statistics, demographics and service levels. We study growth and the needs of the
communities. We recognize that librarians do not always have the funding or opportunity to engage
in professional library planning services. We have helped numerous professionals learn about new
service paradigms, user needs, collection storage, organizational changes and material
management techniques.
Needs Assessment, Programs, and Layouts: The library spaces planned by our team are the
culmination of a three -step methodology: Needs Assessment, Building Program and Layout of
Library Space. The Needs Assessment defines the community and its service needs. The Building
Program determines space types such as areas for collection shelving, user seating and staff
offices. We recently worked for Las Vegas -Clark County Library District, NV (11 libraries);
Duquesne University, PA; Long Island University, NY; NATO World Headquarters, Belgium; AARP,
Washington, DC; National Agricultural Library, MD; and the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, MD.
Each of these organizations regarded the library as an important service and not just as a place.
We worked closely with the community to determine the requirements for library service, because
each virtual service is rooted in a library, office or space.
Organizational Planning: Careful consideration needs to be taken during the preparation of a new
library building, addition or renovation plan. Often the building program raises larger questions
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 2 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
about the needs of the institution on the campus or in the community. In order to create a facility
that will adapt to needs, we offer organizational planning sessions that help define the options for
efficient library service. These may include mobile services, self check-out/in, meeting and
programming rooms, classrooms, flexible group study/work areas and staffed service points.
Sustainable Planning: The integration of new services provides an opportunity to add collections
and user and staff spaces. To determine the best options for the library of the future we provide
cost data and budget comparisons. For the University of California, Riverside, we developed short-
term and long-term outcomes that accurately measured the needs for scholarly learning. These
outcomes provided the University Librarian with opportunities for growth and renewal. For Long
Island University, the planning results determined three options for service improvement. Each
scenario was translated into a building cost, which resulted in a series of logical outcomes for the
community.
Operational Designs: ACA has been recognized for its innovative system studies. For Long Island
University's two campuses, we researched the library system and provided recommendations on
equal access for all students. For Barnstable Libraries, MA, we worked with the library system to
provide equal funding. For Buffalo and Erie County, NY, we researched options to improve system
services by strengthening regional libraries. For Las Vegas -Clark County, NV, we developed
outlines for a materials management center (AS/RS), a new green library building and a series of
service improvements that ultimately will save the county funds. Our approach ensures the best
value on our clients' capital investments and has resulted in a proven track record of delivering
quality planning solutions.
Flexibility: Aaron Cohen Associates, LTD is committed to producing state-of-the-art libraries,
heritage centers and museums. We are very enthusiastic about the potential of partnerships, and
work with our clients to develop strategies that support fund raising and shared services. The library
of the future is defined by the community it serves. We are committed to reaching its goals and the
vision of its people.
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 3 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
B. EXPERIENCE OF PROPOSED PROJECT TEAM
Similar Library Facility Planning Projects
Company: Town of Barnstable
Contact: Sue Martin, Director
Phone: 508-428-5175
Email martin(a)skmassociates.net
Address: Marstons Mills Public Library
2160 Main St.
Marstons Mills, MA 02648
Project & Services Provided:
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD was contracted to provide consulting services to perform a study of
the seven libraries located in the Town of Barnstable on Cape Cod, Massachusetts on October 1,
2004. We are conducting the study and recommend actions to improve the effectiveness and
efficiency of the libraries within the Town of Barnstable. During our consultancy, we work with the
Town Manager, Library Committee, and individual Library Boards and library staffs to standardize
practices and procedures; determine enablers and barriers to develop successful library service
outcomes for the Barnstable communities; recommend a formula for the equitable distribution of
funds to the libraries within the Town of Barnstable. The amount contracted was $49,930. Time
required to complete the project was 8 months.
Company: Buffalo & Erie County Public
Library
Contact: Dan Walters, Former Director
Phone: 702-507-3610
Email waltersd(o)lvccld.org
Address: 1 Lafayette Square
Buffalo, NY 14203
Project & Services Provided:
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD created a Master Facility Plan as part of a Long -Range Strategic
Plan for Buffalo & Erie County Public Library. Total involvement was 12 months including field work
and focus groups. We visited all 52 branch libraries as well as the main library. Erie County is
made up of 3 cities, 25 towns, 16 villages, 29 school districts, 49 independent special-purpose
governments and parts of two Native -American Reservations.
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 4 08/28/2008
Company: Las Vegas -Clark County Library
District
Contact: Steve Rice, Project Manager
Phone: 702-507-3750
Email rices(a,lvccld.org
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Address: 833 Las Vegas Blvd. N.
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Project & Services Provided:
Las Vegas -Clark County Library (LVCCLD) consists of eleven suburban libraries. We conducted a
Macro Study that assessed the redesign potential for each of the eleven libraries and identified
facility redesign challenges and impacts. In addition, we created a Library Efficiencies Report for the
LVCCLD and developed a Building Program for the Centennial Hills Library.
For each library redesign, the Macro Study explored initiatives to improve staff workflow and reduce
workloads. Functions included checking -out and checking -in materials, improving library materials
handling processes and simplifying operational challenges.
Major challenges encountered in the study were:
Size and complexity of each of the eleven libraries.
Space configuration constraints at each of the libraries.
Significant internal competition for limited resources.
The cost for adapting the current barcode system for self check-out and check -in and/or the cost for
the implementation of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID).
The cost for renovation and reconfiguration of each of the eleven libraries.
Future steps identified were:
Staff acceptance of new/additional responsibilities.
Training the staff in good advocacy practices, especially to help public service staff understand the
importance of advocacy, and adequate training facilities for the staff and public.
Clearly defined scope of renovation work and preliminary estimates for each of the eleven libraries.
Time required to complete the project was 9 months.
ADDITIONAL REFERENCES
Berks County Public Library System
1037F MacArthur Road
Reading, PA 19605
National Agricultural Library
10301 Baltimore Ave.
Beltsville, MD 20705-2351
Julie Rinehart
Administrator
Telephone: 610-378-5260
E-mail: jrinehart(a)berks.lib.pa.us
Peter R. Young
Director
Telephone: 301-504-5248
Fax: 301-504-7042
E-mail: pyoung(aY)nal.usda..qov
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 5 08/28/2008
Smithsonian Institution Libraries
Washington, DC 20013-7012
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20857
University of Illinois @ Urbana -Champaign
216 Library
1408 W. Gregory Drive
Urbana, IL 61801
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Mary Augusta Thomas
Associate Director
Reader Services & Strategic Planning
Telephone: 202-633-2240
Fax: 202-786-2866
E-mail: thomasm aC si.edu
Karen M. Kapust
Library Director
Telephone: 301-827-5697
Fax: 301-443-6385
E-mail: kapustk(ccder.fda.gov
Barton Clark
Former Director of Facility Planning
Currently, Professor Emeritus
Telephone: 217-352-0548
E-mail: b-clark(o)uiuc.edu
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 6 08/28/2008
PROPOSAL for CONSULTING SERVICES for
FACILITIES MASTER PLAN
FORT COLLINS REGIONAL LIBRARY DISTRICT
Team Resumes
Aaron Cohen, AIA, MArch, Principal Library Planning Consultant and Project Manager for this
proposed project is Senior Principal of Aaron Cohen Associates LTD. He received his Masters of
Architecture and Planning from Pratt Institute and his B.S. and Bachelor of Architecture from
Georgia Institute of Technology. Mr. Cohen will be active on -site and in all aspects of the project.
He will act as the primary point of contact between the Consulting Team and Library, and will be
responsible for the coordination and delivery of all Library Consulting services. A respected author
on library planning topics, Mr. Cohen is a registered architect (seven states, including California), a
twenty-five year member of the American Library Association, and a member of the American
Institute of Architects. He also holds NCARB registration. His strengths are in strategic and long-
range planning, master facility planning, site selection, space planning and preliminary cost
estimating. To this end, he has been retained to provide Master Planning studies by numerous
library systems in the U.S. and abroad, including:
• Las Vegas -Clark County Library System, NV — 12 facilities and a Service Center.
• NATO World Headquarters Library, Brussels, Belgium.
• National Library of Greece, Athens.
• King Abdullah University of Science & Technology Library, Saudi Arabia.
• Buffalo and Erie County, NY — 52 facilities
• Town of Barnstable, MA — 7 facilities
• Atlanta -Fulton Public Library System, GA — Main Library & 15 facilities
• Spokane Public Library, WA — Main Library & 5 facilities
• National Library of Singapore — National Library, 3 regional & branch libraries
• Berks County Public Library System, PA — 19 libraries
• New York Public Library, NY — Mid -Manhattan, Donnell & Bronx Borough Libraries
Other projects include: Broward County Library System, FL; Chicago Public Library, Chicago, IL;
Virginia Poly Tech, Blacksburg, VA; NASA -Langley, Hampton, VA; Carnegie Mellon University,
Pittsburgh, PA; University of Illinois, Champaign -Urbana, Urbana, IL; University of Illinois at
Chicago, Chicago, IL; Long Island University, NY.
In joint effort with Elaine Cohen and Alex Cohen, Mr. Cohen has conducted more than 500
seminars and workshops on space planning and design, strategic planning and library automation.
The current workshop is entitled: "The Visual Scan & the Design of Future Oriented Libraries". Also
in joint effort with Elaine Cohen, he is coauthor of Planning the Electronic Office (McGraw-Hill),
Automation, Space Management and Productivity (R. R. Bowker) and Designing and Space
Planning for Libraries (R. R. Bowker). He is also the coauthor of the chapter on Ergonomics in the
CAD/CAM Handbook (McGraw-Hill).
Alex Cohen, MLS, Library/Technology Consultant, is a library technology professional. He
gained his Masters in Library Science in 2005 from Long Island University and technical training
from the PMI (Project Management Institute) in 1998. He has worked on Networking, Software
Development, User Training, and Object Oriented Programming and Development projects. His
focus, group and community research techniques were derived from numerous software
development projects. As a library facilitator and technology planner, his experience includes library
automation projects and implementation of a host of global IT projects. Alex is an expert in large-
scale integration of resources, knowledge management, service planning and reorganization,
computer -based training and instructional interface design. He has worked as a project manager
Aaron Cohen Associates LTD Page 7 08/28/2008