Jul. 9, 2014:  Recognizing the need to transform the Bronxville School library from a book repository to a more open-space learning commons that will encompass the flexibility needed to encourage project-based learning, collaboration, and interaction among students, the PTA has pledged an initial $250,000 toward refurbishment.

District architect Russ Davidson, principal of KG&D, presented a conceptual design for the updated library at the Bronxville Board of Education's June 19 meeting.

The primary architectural changes to the library will include installing a glass wall along the corridor enabling passersby to look into the facility, opening up the rooms on either end of the library to promote flow into a larger space, and the removal of book stacks that currently occupy space near the windows. According to Davidson, the space created by removing the stacks will become a place where students can interact and collaborate on projects.

"This is something we're seeing happen in many school districts as they struggle to integrate wireless technologies, traditional libraries, and different learning styles," Davidson said. He noted that the adaptable space will accommodate various programs, all updated for the 21st century, and move the character of the library away from the traditional 19th-century model.

Board member Dr. James Hudson noted that part of the ongoing discussion in the board's facilities committee has involved the importance of such a learning facility for Bronxville students as the board looks to the future. "We very much support this," Hudson said. "We are sensitive to the beauty of the space and look to enhance that."

Hudson indicated that the size of a school district determines the number of books required in a library. "A district our size nowadays should have ten thousand books," he said, "and we have twenty-five to thirty thousand."

KG&D's design includes a change in the library's furniture to lighter-weight pieces that encourage flexible configurations for small-group learning. Davidson stated that while the furniture will retain a "traditional look" with wood tones, much of the seating will be soft. Plans also call for glass and magnetic white-board walls that will allow students to write on the surfaces.

Davidson stressed that the new design will not remove the wood paneling currently in the library, nor will it remove the ceiling, windows, and other woodwork that are distinctive features of the library.

Bronxville School PTA president Margaret Mager stated that the project fits within the organization's mission to support both the education of students and their social experience. She noted that both middle and high school students, over 50 percent of the school's total student body, will use the learning commons. She pointed out that the new project-based learning space will enhance the school's academic environment and complement The Bronxville School Foundation's grants to fund technology.

Davidson estimated an $800,000 budget for the library refurbishment, which includes $640,000 for construction and $160,000 for furnishings.

According to Mager, in addition to the initial $250,000 pledge to "jump start" the project, the PTA plans to hold a fundraiser in the spring of 2015 and hopes to see construction begin no later than the summer of 2017.

"It is our sincere hope that the board of education will deem the learning commons project a worthwhile pursuit and that with their approval, the board of education and the PTA can work together to fund the project," Mager said.

Pictured here (L to R): Jill Pytosh, PTA president elect 2014-2015, Margaret Mager, PTA president 2013-2014, and Eileen Mann, middle school/high school librarian.

Photo by Carol P. Bartold