Overview
Address: 5575 East 33rd Avenue
Year opened: 1995
Last renovation: 2004
Square footage: 5,285 sq. ft.
Renovation Construction Includes:
- Increase square footage with an addition to improve the existing restrooms, book drop, community room, staff spaces, youth spaces, flexible learning areas, and shelving
- Exterior improvements including: landscaping, sidewalks, exterior lighting, parking lot, facade restoration; building system updates to HVAC, electrical, IT, communications, lighting, surveillance, access controls, and life safety
- Provide new interior finishes, furniture, fixtures, and signage
Renovation Designer: Anderson Hallas Architects
General Contractor: Interlock Construction Corp.
History
At the 1995 dedication of the library branch named for her, Pauline Robinson said, “Of all the honors, the truest satisfaction that I’ve received throughout my career has been encouraging young people to continue their education and to prepare for their lifelong goals.” Robinson was one of the first African-Americans to graduate from the University of Denver’s library school and became the Denver Public Library’s first African-American librarian. She retired in 1979 as coordinator of Children’s Services.
Today, Robinson’s legacy lives on as the branch serves an important role in the community, acting as both a library and community hub. Children and adults alike visit the library to study, access materials, use technology and meet with one another. The branch works closely with the Boys and Girls Club across the parking lot to ensure children have a safe and welcoming environment during out-of-school hours.
The branch serves a diverse urban service area. The service area is dominated by families with children and ages ranging from toddler to high school. The branch’s collection and programs reflect the interests and needs of the diverse neighborhood.
Community Input
Two community conversations were held in the Pauline Robinson Branch Library neighborhood. In May 2016, five residents met with the artistic director of PlatteForum and several library staff members to discuss aspirations and concerns for the community with a specific eye toward the 303 Artway walking path project. The library hosted another community conversation in July, which brought 12 local residents in for community discussions.
Neighbors are concerned about jobs and youth engagement and desperately desire a walkable neighborhood. Attendees shared a desire for more “eyes on the street” due to an increase in gang activity. Other concerns include the need for higher wages and resources to provide safe spaces for youth. Residents believe that local organizations are not effectively communicating their services or coordinating with one another. Currently, the library closes on its evening shifts one hour earlier than other branch locations to help young people get to their homes earlier and avoid being out after dark.