Sequoyah Regional Library System Master Plan + Space Needs Analysis
To meet the evolving needs of Cherokee County’s rapidly growing population, the Sequoyah Regional Library System needed a master plan and space needs analysis. With the population expected to increase by more than 150,000 by 2060, the goal was for the library facilities to remain relevant, adaptable, and accessible for years to come.
Planning Grounded in Community Input and Facility Assessments
The project began with stakeholder meetings to clarify goals. Next, we performed assessments of the five existing library facilities, furnishings, and collections. Also, an evaluation of current spatial efficiencies across the system.
Using GIS mapping and population modeling, discrete service areas were defined for each branch and recommended square footage needs were calculated based on Georgia Public Library Service standards. This space needs analysis formed the foundation to deliver targeted, data-driven decisions for Sequoyah Library.
Recommendations Support Capital Planning and Future-Ready Libraries
The analysis revealed capacity gaps at nearly every existing branch. The team prioritized strategic investments based on growth, accessibility, and demand, leading to conceptual plans and cost summaries for five new branches and one branch expansion. Together, these projects would nearly triple the system’s current square footage and help meet the needs of their future growth.
The library master plan offers a long-term, scalable framework to guide capital improvements and support the area’a future growth.