Subject:
Title
Palm Harbor Library Fiscal Year 2024 Municipal Services Taxing Unit Special Projects Funding Request for Library Shelving Units.
label
Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Approval of the Municipal Services Taxing Unit Special Projects Funding Request made by the Palm Harbor Library for the installation of one full row of movable, high-capacity, library shelving units.
• The Palm Harbor Library facility is 35 years old - most of the shelving is original to the building.
• These grant funds will allow for the replacement of one full row/range of shelving closest to the front entrance. This installation will be one of four shelving ranges to be replaced to achieve optimal space and flexibility for public use in the center of the Palm Harbor Library.
• The height of the existing shelving will be reduced by 28%, and the full width will be reduced by 13%, thereby increasing site lines which improves accessibility and provides a sense of safety and security for patrons and staff.
• The new shelving unit is on casters which provides flexibility by being able to move the unit(s) to make way for new activities, events, exhibits, and projects.
• The funding request for this project is in the amount of $20,000.00. The cost for the project is $34,800.68, as quoted by state contracted vendor Office Worx, Inc. (see attached quote). The balance of $14,800.68 will be paid by the library through its Operating and/or Capital Funds.
Body
Strategic Plan:
This project aligns with the Pinellas County strategic plan as follows;
1. The vision “To Be the Standard for Public Service in America” will be realized with up‐to‐date furniture that improves accessibility, flexibility, and a sense of safety and security;
2. The mission of “Meeting the needs and concerns of the community today and tomorrow” by installing fixtures that can be moved to make way for new activities, events, and projects;
3. “Healthy and Safe Communities”; the additional floor space and sightlines are not only aesthetically ideal - staff will be able see more of the library and its occupants which is ideal for safety;
4. “Resilient Infrastructure and Environment”; improving accessibility for residents is critical to Palm Harbor Library’s brand of public service, and the selection of this furniture is geared toward long‐term use and flexibility;
5. “Smart Service Delivery”; by pursuing this project, lessons learned by other public libraries are being employed who have better served their populations by making wise choices to showcase their collections.
Summary:
Summary
The Palm Harbor Library is a non-profit organization under the auspice of the Palm Harbor Community Services Agency Inc. (an ad-valorem special taxing district approved by the voters in Palm Harbor in 1985). The Palm Harbor Library operates the library facility which is owned by the County. Palm Harbor Library aspires to be the definitive educational and cultural destination for all members of the Palm Harbor community. It offers a safe and secure environment and serves as a neutral venue while providing easy access to information. The library is an essential part of the community, acting as an anchor for learning, promoting, and supporting the arts and meeting the evolving needs of its residents.
Palm Harbor Library’s responsibility is to maintain a safe, secure, and an environment conducive to learning. The building is 35 years old, and the last major remodeling project was undertaken 15 years ago. Recently the library began a facility-wide endeavor to upgrade, improve and replace all areas of the building that required attention. This project is a component of these upgrades.
Body
Background Information:
The MSTU Special Projects Funding opportunity was created by the Board of County Commissioners for the purpose of supporting projects that enhance community and neighborhood opportunities in unincorporated areas of Pinellas County. These MSTU Special Projects Awards are intended to support culture, recreation, and community engagement opportunities for residents in unincorporated areas that are comparable to those opportunities which municipalities typically provide to their residents.
Fiscal Impact:
The request for funding in the amount of $20,000 is a one-time expenditure of budgeted MSTU Special Projects funds. The cost for the entire project is $34,800.68 and is based on state contract pricing. The balance of $14,800.68 will be paid by the library through its Operating and/or Capital Funds.
Staff Member Responsible:
Nancy McKibben, Assistant to the County Administrator Representing Unincorporated North County
Partners:
Palm Harbor Community Services Agency
Attachments:
Palm Harbor Library FY24 MSTU Special Projects Funding Application PHL2024_OfficeWorx_ShelvingQuote (based on State contract pricing)