Libraries, such as the new Salt Lake City library, are being designed to be amenable to a brave new, noisier world.
The $65 million Salt Lake City library, designed by architect Moshe Safdie, "was designed not only to be an architecturally striking landmark but also to be the new information center and gathering spot for the 21st century. Librarians wear 'No Shh!' buttons; a cafe sells coffee, sandwiches and muffins; about 163 computers are available for games and Net surfing; and music can be heard on all floors-- and not just through headphones. There's also an art gallery, concerts, public meeting space, talks by authors and a CD and DVD collection that could rival Tower Records....This redesign of how people have thought of libraries isn't just a Salt Lake City phenomenon. New libraries are being planned in Des Moines, Philadelphia, Seattle, Minneapolis and Tulsa, and planners say they hope to adopt similar innovations."
Thanks to Connie Chung
FULL STORY: Here's America's unquietest library
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
Central Florida’s SunRail Plans Major Expansion
The expanded train line will connect more destinations to the international airport and other important destinations.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
For Some, Co-Housing Offers Social and Economic Benefits
Residents of co-living developments say the built-in community helps ease the growing isolation felt by many Americans.
New Map Puts Bay Area Traffic Data in One Place
The Traffic Monitoring site uses community-collected speed and volume data to reveal traffic patterns on local roads.
Electric Car Share Comes to Detroit’s Eastside
The program is operated by the Eastside Community Network and funded through the U.S. Department of Energy.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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City of Culver City
Skagit Transit
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
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