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Transforming Libraries – Other Projects

Transforming Libraries

Other Projects

Nicholson Commons - George Latimer Central Library

SPPL worked with MSR Design to engage community members to create a plan for service, space, and user experience improvements to Nicolson Commons at George Latimer Central Library. Through SPPL and MSR’s joint community engagement efforts, we have identified the following guiding principles:

Welcoming: The Nicholson Commons will provide a welcoming, accessible, inspiring space for all, that invites curiosity and casual use within its historic formal backdrop.

Empowering: Offerings and amenities will be obvious, user friendly, and encourage use to support you and your needs.

Flexible: You can define your own experiences through a range of spaces that provide openness and privacy, activity and quiet, seating choices, and technology access. The Nicholson Commons will be comfortable for meeting and interacting with others and for being alone.

Thanks to The Friends of Saint Paul Public Library, the transformation of Nicholson Commons is funded annually by the Richard and Nancy Nicholson Endowment, an annual investment dedicated to the programs, materials, technology, and services offered in the space.

The improvement project includes:

Layout: Rearrangement of the Nicholson Commons space to create a more friendly experience for all patrons, whether they are using the computer, browsing for books, co-working, or making copies.

Study rooms: Two new study rooms that provide quiet and privacy for individuals or small groups.

Meeting room: Improvements to the public meeting room that include improved technology to run virtual meetings as well as increased visibility into the room that contributes to a welcoming and safe environment.

Balcony: Repurpose the balcony for co-working or studying, maximizing the beautiful views of the Mississippi River and Rice Park. Relocate the collections currently housed on the balcony to make room for better access and working use of the space.

New: Study Rooms

Two study rooms were added Nicholson Commons in February 2025. Patrons now have access to quiet spaces for individual or small group studying, working, collaborating, privacy, and more. The rooms are available to all and can accommodate up to four people.

Rooms are available for reservation 24 hours to 14 days in advance and walk-ins are still welcome on a first-come, first-served basis.

Coming Next

Relocating the collections currently housed on the balcony to make room for new co-working purpose of the space. Create increased visibility into and out of the space and improved access for patrons.

Furnishing the balcony with comfortable chairs and tables that accommodate co-working or studying.

Adding new technology to the meeting room that accommodates virtual meeting uses of the space.

Nicholson Commons Renderings

Click an image to enlarge.

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