CHPL Foundation Projects
In 2013, the Chapel Hill Public Library re-opened after a $16 million renovation and expansion project.
It is widely recognized that great public libraries require financial support beyond what taxpayer dollars provide, so the Foundation was proud to be a part of this new chapter in the life of the Library:
We provided $350,000 for furniture and shelving throughout the new facility.
Through a dedicated campaign, we raised $150,000 for new books and other materials so that when the new facility opened, the shelves would be full of new items for readers of all ages.
We provided $75,000 for general technology needs as well as seed money to launch the Digital Media Lab. In 2021, the Foundation gave the Library $40,000 from the Rohrbacher fund as seed money for equipment and software for The Studio, the next iteration of the Digital Media Lab.
The Library’s Automated Materials Handler, also known as “The Bookie Monster.”
Automated Materials Handler
You’ll often see kids of all ages gathered in the Library lobby, excitedly looking through an interior window. What are they watching that is so entertaining? The Library’s Automated Materials Handler, also known as “The Bookie Monster.” The AMH was made possible in 2015 through a collaboration between the Foundation, who provided $200,000 from the Love Trust, and the Town of Chapel Hill, who provided $100,000.
The AMH was a transformational technology upgrade, making the Library’s essential functions of checking in and sorting materials more efficient. The AMH also meant that staff could spend less time handling books and more time engaging library users. As Library Director Susan Brown said at the time, “The AMH allows us to get our two most valuable assets – our staff and our stuff – out on the floor and in the community more.”
While the Town funds the annual upkeep of the AMH, the Foundation is committed to keeping The Bookie Monster in good working condition. In 2021, we approved an additional $60,000 for a major upgrade that will make it run more efficiently and sustainably for years to come.
Library Terrace
One of the great aspects of the Chapel Hill Public Library is its location within the 34+ acres of beautiful, wooded Pritchard Park - and one of the greatest places to take in the wooded glory of the park is from the terrace at the back of the Library building. While the renovation and expansion project created the concrete terrace, there was not funding to add an awning and furnishings. In 2017, the Foundation approved a special disbursement of $150,000 from the Love Trust for the terrace awning, along with outdoor furniture and fixtures.
On the terrace, Library visitors now find tables, chairs, benches, planters – and of course, WiFi. The terrace is used as an office, a study area, a lunch spot, and reading nook. No matter the weather, and thanks to the awning, library visitors can gaze into the woods and listen to the birds as they get their work done. During the pandemic, the terrace proved to be a popular destination for the many students and workers logging in remotely.
Ground Floor Furniture
The Library’s ground floor is a place where users can find a place to plug in, hunker down, and get to work. You’ll see UNC students, CHCCS students, freelance writers, gig workers, and lots of other folks – all with their laptops, earbuds, backpacks, and cords. They need good WiFi, access to power outlets, and comfortable seating. The Town provides the first two things and the Foundation was pleased to provide a gift of $140,000 from the Love Trust for the third.
In late 2022, users will see new tables and chairs, as well as soft seating, on the ground floor. The Library observed users, gathered data on their needs, and worked with Studio Evloh to select height-adjustable tables, padded chairs, and more. Library staff will enjoy a new service desk tailored to their needs as well. Both staff and users will enjoy new outdoor space, as this project includes new tables and chairs to activate the small terrace off the ground floor.
