Under this Scope of Work, the selected firm/consultant will be responsible for the design, fabrication, and installation of multiple interactive play stations and related elements for the children’s area. The end result should be a cohesive, engaging environment that offers a variety of play-based learning opportunities for young patrons (primarily ages 0-8) and their families. Key objectives include: • Reimagination of the Space: Develop an overall design concept that transforms the existing Youth Services play area into a fresh, immersive “playscape” with a unified look and feel. The new design should make optimal use of the available space, create distinct yet harmonious play zones, and reflect a creative theme or aesthetic that resonates with children. It should feel inviting and exciting for kids, while also comfortable and functional for caregivers. • Interactive Play Stations: Design and build a set of hands-on, museum-quality play installations that address the Library’s wish-list of features (detailed in subsection C below). These should include activities that promote imaginative play, gross and fine motor skill development, social interaction, and early literacy or STEM concepts, all within a library setting. • Quality and Durability: All components must be constructed of high-quality, durable materials suitable for public use. Given the heavy usage anticipated (hundreds of young visitors per week), installations must be extremely sturdy and safe, capable of withstanding vigorous play over many years. They should also be designed for easy maintenance and cleaning by library staff. • Age-Appropriate Design: The playscape should offer layered experiences to serve a range of young ages – from infants and toddlers up through early elementary children. Consideration should be given to creating safe, enclosed or semi-enclosed areas for the littlest visitors (babies and toddlers), as well as more challenging interactive elements for older children, all within a contiguous space. • Accessibility and Inclusivity: The design must comply with relevant accessibility standards (ADA) to ensure children of all abilities can engage with the play stations. The environment should be welcoming to all, with elements that various age groups, caregivers, and children with disabilities can enjoy. • Aesthetic Integration: The new play elements should complement the Library’s existing interior design where possible (for example, tying in color schemes or the Prairie Style motifs subtly), while also introducing vibrant colors or features that appeal to children. Elements like murals or decorative installations can be used to enliven blank walls and improve acoustics. The overall playscape should be visually appealing and reduce the institutional feel of the space. • Future Flexibility: Where practical, designs should be modular or flexible to allow updates or rotation of themes over time. For example, a dramatic play area could be designed to be easily re-themed (market, kitchen, clinic, etc.) by swapping out props or panels. This will help keep the play experience fresh for returning visitors.
