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Horn Architects is partnering with FEH Associates, Inc., based in Iowa, which specializes in designing libraries.
"For this study, we brought in FEH as a consultant," Horn said. "FEH has done about 40 different library projects, so they are highly capable in this area."
FEH also is in the process of completing the first library in Iowa to earn certification in LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).
"Under that certification, the building is designed in an environmentally friendly way, so they can bring those ideas to the table even if we don't go for a LEED rating here," Horn said.
Horn also will include George Lawson, another library planning consultant, who is familiar with the Washington facility.
"Lawson was used back in 2005 for a study, so he knows the area," Horn said.
City Librarian Nell Redhage said the architects will come up with a design for expanding the existing building or building a new facility.
"We are bursting at the seams with our current space," Redhage said. "The board and staff are looking forward to having more space and accommodate the number of people who come through the library."
In May, Mike Hopkins, library board president, told the city council that the library is in need of space, noting that the library's computers are in constant use and the children's programs have grown exponentially.
"Quite simply, we need to prepare to better serve the needs of our ever-expanding patron base," Hopkins wrote in a letter to council members.
One option the architects may consider is using the lower level of the existing building, which used to house the police department but has been vacant since and used only for storage.
"They saw that as a good possibility for expanding, so we would be on two levels. However, if we did that, we would need to add an elevator and a stairwell," Redhage said.
Another design may involve building a new facility altogether, but Redhage noted that option is unlikely.
"The board is settled on trying to stay in this building. It's a good location, the space is not being utilized and the building is in good shape," she said.
The planners also will take parking into consideration, Redhage said, noting the need for more parking spaces at the library.
Horn said he is not sure when the first phase of the project would begin, but explained that the process would include studying the site and building, coming up with an initial design and then showing the schematic design to the public.
Redhage said she would like to see a design concept available for public review before the half-cent capital improvement sales tax expires next June.
The expansion or a new facility has been suggested as an ideal project using the sales tax. City officials may ask voters to renew the sales tax next spring.
