Waterman
Hamilton East Public Library has begun the initial stages of renovating, remodeling and rejuvenating both the Fishers and Noblesville Libraries. When complete, library users will experience collaborative workspaces with fresh innovative furnishings to allow for greater flexibility in how individuals and small groups use the community gathering space. Both buildings will welcome more open concept entrances, complete with decentralized service stations and electronic signage.
Highlights of the plans include virtually all new spaces and functions in the lower levels at both buildings. In Noblesville, the children’s area will be transformed with a new youth friendly theme, complete with an outside entrance and additional programming and gathering space. In Fishers, the space formerly occupied by Launch Fishers will become an arts-focused maker space. The library once again worked with Fishers start-up Iconic Digital Marketing to brand and designate the space as “Ignite Studio at HEPL”, a place where ideas are sparked. While plans are not finalized, it promises to offer a variety of activity spaces for an assortment of art interests from painting and fabric arts to digital and video editing.
Library Director Edra Waterman is enthusiastic about the new spaces and opportunities ahead. “Our plans have been in the making for several years now. Based on our latest strategic plan, it was clear that while we had a lot of space to offer, that space was not ideal for the changing needs of our users. Having met with various public groups, including those inside and outside of the arts community, we recognized a real need and desire to make available more unique spaces and services and to create flexible, dynamic environments that foster creativity and innovation.” shared Waterman.
The first phase of the transformation is scheduled to begin as early as mid-2017 and estimated to take up to 2 years to complete.