Branch Recommendations

Boardman Library
7680 Glenwood Ave
Youngstown, OH 44512
(330)758-1414

Photo:

Service Area:
1990 Census Population of Primary Service Area: 29,839
2000 Census Population of Primary Service Area: 30,578
2003 Population Estimate for Primary Service Area: 30,327
2008 Population Projection for Primary Service Area: 29,847

Six-Year Circulation History:

Circulation Trend:
Circulation has declined significantly over the last two years after being fairly stable for several years. The openings of the Poland and Austintown libraries probably account for most of the decline. Boardman lacks some of the warmth and amenities of the Austintown and Poland libraries and is beginning to show some signs of aging. Nevertheless, Boardman is still the busiest library in the PLYMC system.

Year Built: 1993

Year(s) of Additions: None

Year(s) of Major Remodeling: None

Year(s) and Nature of Refurbishing Projects: None

Total Size: 21,500 sq. ft.

Space Currently in Use: 21,500 sq. ft.

Reason(s) Total Space Not in Use: All space is in use

SF per capita (using service population): .71 sq. ft. per capita

Physical Condition Rating:
(5 point scale - 1 = Very Poor, 2 = Poor, 3 = Fair, 4 = Good, 5 = Excellent)

Overall Condition: 4
Structural Integrity: 5
Roof: 3
HVAC: 4
Electrical:3
Plumbing: 4
Fenestration: 4
ADA Accessibility Issues: 4
Ambiance: 3
Other (specify): (parking exit) 2

Site/Location Rating:
(5 point scale - 1 = Very Poor, 2 = Poor, 3 = Fair, 4 = Good, 5 = Excellent)

Overall Site/Location Rating: 4
Convenience: 4
Visibility: 4
Curb Appeal: 4
Parking: 4
Size of Site/Expansion Potential: 4
Proximity (to shopping, services, etc.): 4

Distances to Nearest Branches/Main:
Poland 3.9 miles
South 5.1 miles
Brownlee Woods 5.4 miles
Canfield 5.4 miles
Main 6.6 miles

Current Hours of Operation: http://www.libraryvisit.org/locations.htm

Estimated Annual Operational Cost (2003):
$ 858,985

Estimated Staffing Costs (2003):
$ 607,839

Professional/Clerical Bi-Weekly Pay Percentage (2003):
53.16% Professional, 46.84% Clerical

Current Collection Size:
113,078

Cost per Circulation:
$ 2.25

Circulation per Sq. Ft.:
17.75

Circulation per Hour Open:
116.52

Visits per Capita:
6.75

Visits per Hour Open:
62.53

Reference Transactions per Hour Open:
2.99

Turnover Rate:
3.37

Boardman summary:
The Boardman Library continues to be the busiest library in the PLYMC system in spite of the fact that it is beginning to show its age. Built in 1993, it lacks some of the amenities and the warmth characteristic of the two libraries (Austintown and Poland) built in recent years. The building has a few relatively minor structural deficits that should be addressed and some existing space could be used more efficiently.

It is estimated that the Boardman Library is serving a population of 30,327, almost exactly the target established for regional branches. At 21,500 square feet, it is slightly undersized (approximately 1,250 square feet). The .71 square feet per capita provided is a bit low but is quite acceptable.

Recommended action for Boardman, adopted by Library Trustees on March 18, 2004: Relatively minor structural deficits such as roof repairs should be addressed immediately. Existing space at the Boardman Library should be reprogrammed and the entire building renovated to improve efficiency while at the same time creating a more inviting atmosphere. The efficiency of the circulation function should be improved and, given the high level of circulation, self-checkout technology should be added. A computer laboratory and additional space for non-print materials should be created by repurposing underutilized space originally designed for purposes that are now obsolete. Serious consideration should also be given to incorporating a café into the library's design. It is an amenity that is clearly well received in other locations as well as an additional source of revenue supporting all libraries in the county.