Above: The engineering firm’s conceptual drawing of the proposed South County Library. Along with expanded space to host the library’s growing collection, amenities will include an auditorium, more public computer access, meeting rooms, a drive-up book return, a coffee shop and more!
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(October 2008) - Roanoke County’s newest library will be located across from Penn Forest Elementary School in Southwest County. The design process for the South County Library was completed over the summer and bids for construction were received in September. However, the bids came in higher than expected and the County is currently reviewing the costs to look for any savings. As a result, the County will likely rebid the project. This will delay the project, but the county remains committed to the project.
In addition to more space for books, computer work stations and new media, the 55,000 sq. ft. South County Library will feature attractive displays, WiFi and docking stations, a small business center, cozy reading nooks, self-checkout stations and even a drive-through window for easy pick-up and return of materials. Bright colors and soaring ceilings will draw children into the area designed just for them with right-sized furniture and educational computers, as well as a special programming room. Windows throughout the first and second floors will offer sweeping views of the adjacent nature trails and parks.
The young adult section on the terrace level will have space for interactive technology, special collections, homework help, and individual and group study. The community center will include a large meeting room that can be subdivided into smaller rooms, an auditorium, a coffee shop, an information commons area, a used book shop, and two computer labs. The entire center can be closed off from the rest of the library to host after-hours events.
Entrance to the library will be through a roundabout to be constructed at the intersection of Meadowlark Road and Merriman Road. Construction on the roundabout is tentatively scheduled for 2009 and will be scheduled to minimize traffic disruptions on Meadowlark and Merriman roads.
Roanoke County is moving forward with plans to protect the wetland areas around the library in perpetuity, and has received preliminary approval for grant funds to install raised walking platforms and nature trails on site.
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Since its opening in 1972, Roanoke County's 419 Library has weathered many changes in public library information