Hastings Public Library
Hastings, Nebraska 68901 (402) 461-2346
Greenspace Project
The best libraries don’t stop at the front doors. They are anchors to their communities, creating spaces for engagement, learning, and celebration. When the Hastings Library Foundation purchased the 302 N. Denver Ave. property, its goal was to build a place where those who have used the library for decades and those that are visiting for the first time can experience new things and open doors they didn’t know existed. A place that allows people of all ages to connect to nature, be messy and noisy, and explore; where local organizations can join programs that are focused on what’s important to the community and make long-lasting connections.
THE VISION
Our vision for the property includes natural-looking landscapes that can be used as seating and educational spaces, an unrestrictive, open structure that can provide shade and protection from the elements, and, of course, open green space that can be used for outdoor programs and by library guests. Some features you can look forward to are:
- A Permanent Story Stroll: With permanent structures, our stories will be protected from exposure and the weather which means that we'll be able to switch out stories all year long!
- Art Features: The greenspace will be the home of at least one permanent art installation. We will also have art displays that will protect exhibits from weather and elements.
- Designated Programming Space: A section of the greenspace will be designed specifically with library programs in mind. Read on for some examples you can look forward to down below!
- Crosswalk to the Front Door: Similar to the crosswalk set up for the hospital staff on Denver Ave. north of 7th Street, we will have a crosswalk from the parking lot across the street to the library's front door.
THE PROGRAMS
While the greenspace will able to be used by all as a place to socialize, explore, and enjoy, but we'll also use the programming space for exciting and unique events that just aren't possible within our walls. Here's some programs we can't wait to put on:
- Nature Education Programs: Using our Seed Library, we'd love to host different programs that focus on learning about nature, which could include a butterfly release party where we discuss the lifecycle of a butterfly or a pollinator party where we grow pollinator plants and learn about the impact of native plants and flora.
- Let's Get Messy!: Kids often love to get messy as they learn, and we love to give them the chance. With the programming space, we can host mess fests for sensory play, bubble and foam parties to learn about chemistry, and tie dye projects for playing with patterns.
- Bigger is Better: Inside the library, we have board games, scavenger hunts, and the occasional movie screening. In the greenspace, we'll be able to blow these fun programs up on a giant scale with expanded, nature scavenger hunts, life-sized board games, and outdoor movie nights.
- Trying Something New: Some other ideas that we've done sparringly or haven't yet tried include outdoor yoga storytime, puppy yoga, and picture book picnics. The options are endless!
THE PLAN
Currently, we are working with the Foundation board and the architects from Clark and Enerson to refine the current rendering to fit our needs and budget. When they have been finalized, we'll know exactly how much we'll need to raise to make the project a reality.
In the meantime, we are working on fundraising ideas as well as focusing on this project for Give Hastings Day. If you'd like to contribute to the project, you can donate during Give Hastings Day or through the Hastings Library Foundation.
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THE POSSIBILITIES
Below is a gallery of some rendering provided by the Clark and Enerson architects. Please note that these images are not finalized plans and are subject to change.
Gallery
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