Library Showcase: San Luis Obispo County Library, Cayucos Branch - Interview with Melody Mullis

Location Address

• Cayucos Branch Library

• 310 B Street

• Cayucos, CA 93430

Project Introduction

Modular classrooms that were no longer being used by an elementary school were adapted to create the new Cayucos Public Library. A total of 3,000 square feet of modular classrooms were used for the challenging building project that required roof replacement, asbestos remediation, and extra drainage to prevent flooding that the units were prone to in the past.

• Please describe the renovation/expansion or new construction at your library.

The project was a complete renovation of a former kindergarten, 1^st and 2^nd grade class rooms (3) into one unified library space. This was an old modular type classroom from probably the 1960’s. It was completely gutted and redone for a library and small conference room space.

• Why was the project needed?

The Library was prior to this building, located in a leased space. The location was inadequate for parking, and was divided into two spaces. The library was limited in remodeling that space because of the landlord requirements.

• How did technology use or demand for technology influence the space planning for the library?

Patrons had requested more access to the Internet (more computers) in a survey conducted by the Friends of the Library in a survey held in April of 2008. At the old location there was one computer with access to the Internet and one children’s computer and one OPAC. The new building has 2 OPAC, 2 Internet and 2 children’s’ computers (one AWE station and one OPAC). The library also has been wired to have up to 4 additional computers.

• Did patron needs fit into the planning design process?

Yes, Staff reviewed the Cayucos survey from the Friends and continued to listen to input from the community and Friends as the project moved along.

• What has been the patron reaction?

The new library has been well received by the community and circulation has increased by 29% in comparison between January 2010 and January 2011. There have been months with higher circulation increases but they seem to average in the 25% or higher increase each month since they officially opened in April 2010.