Alpharetta Residents Want A Bigger, Better Library

Alpharetta residents got their chance Tuesday night to tell Atlanta-Fulton County Public Library System staff what they want in a new library, and they made the most of it.

From the outside they want a small-town, historic feel. That small feel shouldn't extend to the inside, which residents said should have separate areas for children, computer use and meeting rooms.

Self check-in and check-out systems plus dedicated touch screen "card catalogs" at the end of bookshelves like what book stores use also were desired by the 40 or so people in attendance.

Kathleen Smith of the Friends of the Alpharetta Library (FOTAL) said it was unfortunate that the meeting was held during spring break, as many families couldn't attend becase they were out of town. But FOTAL members and one determined sixth grader made sure the family perspective was provided.

Nathan Larsen, a sixth grade student who is home schooled, made plenty of suggestions and added his support for many of the adults' ideas as well. He wanted separate children's sections, and even separate checkout areas for children.

Larry Attig wants an outdoor area for library patrons to congregate, which would include seating and even a screened fire pit. Other residents liked the idea of outdoor meeting space or even an outdoor amphitheater with small stage area and seating.

John Szabo, director of the library system, told the Alpharetta residents that the site selection has progressed to the point that patrons could best get their suggestions heard by contacting Fulton County Commissioner Liz Hausmann, who represents the area. He said the commissioners will make the ultimate decision on library branch locations.

Residents who missed Tuesday's meeting at the Alpharetta Adult Activity Center can fill out an online survey or email library staff with input at librarycomments@fultoncountyga.gov.

Milton residents will get a chance to offer input in person at a meeting on April 12 at 7 p.m. at s courtroom, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Ste., 107E, Milton.

Sites will be chosen for both libraries and designs prepared for public view this year. Construction should start in 2012 and the new branches should open in 2013, Szabo said.