Projects

Anchorage Library Renewal Initiative

The goal of the Initiative is to build 21st century libraries that encourage lifelong learning and community engagement, and reflect the diversity of Anchorage's neighbrohoods and residents. Thanks to the generous support of the community, we are over halfway to our goal of raising $21 million for the Initiative. The funding will strengthen five branches and the main Z.J. Loussac Public Library, as well as create an additional branch downtown.

Upgrades that have already been implemented include making all the libraries wireless hot spots, expanding online services, increasing the summer reading program, and opening the new Scott and Wesley Gerrish Library and Community Room in Girdwood. Construction on new libraries in Chugiak-Eagle River and Mountain View begin in December 2008.

The Anchorage Public Library has renovation or building plans for each of its branches. Check out the status of our projects by clicking on the list to the right.

 

Help Invent the Future of the Anchorage Public Library!
Be part of developing “the people’s plan” for APL. The plan will help guide the library and its partners in their work, ensure that APL responds to community needs, and provide organizational stability over time.

Community Plan Goals:

• An inspiring long-term vision for APL that defines the Library’s purpose in Anchorage, including its role in the gathering and dispersion of knowledge and in creating and fostering community relationships

• The direction for APL is set by the community as a whole, not just donors and elected officials.

• A planning process that produces broad support for the libraries from around the community and creates new constituent groups

• Recommendations for library services and facilities that are matched with cost estimates and an eye to financial sustainability

• Research-supported evidence behind the plan recommendations that can withstand the different political winds

• The library becomes indispensible as a destination, information source, and community gathering place

Update, May 20:
A 21st Century Library Summit was held on May 19 to kick-off the plan. Nationally recognized library experts presented examples of innovative ideas from across the country and participants discussed possibilities for our own library system. If you missed the event, you can catch up by reviewing the event materials below:

• Click here to check out the program.
• Click here to view a presenation by Youngstown Public Library Director Carlton Sears on 'Creating a Sustainable Library.'

We want you to be a part of this effort to ensure that the library is the place where businesses begin, where neighbors meet, where work, school and personal lives are transformed and where information is easy for everyone to access.

To join our effort, contact Clare Stockert at 343-2983 or email info@anchoragelibraryfoundation.org