The Play & Learn Design Guide will develop standards for how SPPL can ensure all Play & Learn spaces adhere to the following (including but not limited to): Aesthetics and Design • Consistent, cohesive brand-approved aesthetics and space quality while honoring unique branch characteristics • Flexible design that allows for a variety of activities including free play, socializing, and occasional programs. This includes custom play structures that allow for flexibility and storage of various play items and themes. • Creative, innovative approach to play with opportunities for infants, toddlers and preschoolers to engage successfully in the space • Fosters a level of active play appropriate for an indoor environment • Integrates local public art as part of space • Incorporates items appropriate for a reading garden or other small outdoor space • Prioritizes natural, organic materials and connections to the natural world • Design is not overly reliant on themes and supports frequent adjustments to items and learning content Furnishings • Shelving for youth materials (may include picture books, early readers, etc.) that is browsable and incorporated into the play space • High-quality, sturdy furnishings and materials that stand up to heavy use • Incorporate Play & Learn concepts with SPPL’s Interior Design Guidelines, Brand Identity, and Facilities Plan, including color palette, furniture ideas, finishes, connect with natural and organic elements, shelving recommendations for making collects easier to browse • Selection of items that may be used for outdoor engagement or play Planning and Maintenance • Community engagement plan to inform space design and elements. “Community” includes patrons, staff, and community members, partners or organizations • Longevity – spaces will not look or feel outdated within a few years • Menu of choices for an installation piece (light wall, LiteBrite panels, etc.) for each location. • Safety standards that ensure space is safe for children of all ages, including infants • Maintenance plan that identifies best practices for long-term support of an attractive, high-quality Play & Learn space • Recommendations or options for storage and organization of play items The design of the Sun Ray Library Play & Learn space will include the following: • Execution of a community engagement plan that informs design and plans for the space. • Full design of Play & Learn space, including, but not limited to: New carpet, lighting, furnishings, space layout, etc. Incorporating shelving of applicable collections Incorporating artwork from a local artist as a prominent visual piece of the space (this could be a structure, interactive element, sculpture, mural or other visual art piece.) Recommendations for custom build of play items or structures identified for the space Maintenance plan that supports long-term success for the space
