The Dayton Metro Library opened its new Main library on August 5. The new 224,000 square foot library on 215 E. Third St. offers over 20 spaces that each accommodate a unique experience and opportunity.
Dayton’s new Main Library provides over 130 computers with 1000 mb/s internet access, Green Screen rooms with audio/video recording and editing equipment and LAUNCH point business and workforce development resources among over 20 new and innovative public resources.
The new library includes creative spaces such as The Bassani Theater Off Third, TeenEDGE and The Eichelberger Forum. The 6,000 square foot Eichelberger Forum is a 299 capacity show space complete with advanced sound and lighting equipment and flexible arrangement options.
Main library is child friendly with hands-on learning space, an enclosed out-doors children’s terrace and dedicated space not only for children but also tweens and teens. The TeenEDGE facility provides reading, computer use and gaming areas and is placed next to a Green-Screen room and study areas.
The first floor includes new Opportunity spaces which are meant for activities, exhibits and collaborations and are available to residents for extended use, typically three weeks to three months. Spaces include the 2,100 square foot at the St.Clair venue and the 1,840 square foot theater-style at the Patterson location.
Six original art pieces are installed within the library to accompany the natural light within the three-story Atrium.
The pieces are procured by a partnership with the Dayton Art Institute. The new library experience includes touchscreen catalogs, self service checkout and check-in and numerous manned help-desks.
The Dayton-inspired architecture of the new library pays tribute to Dayton’s history, rivers and bridges. The five-level building was built on the existing 1962 Library’s foundation. The two levels previously meant for book and document storage have been converted to underground parking space.
Will Drewing
Reporter