Martin Luther King Jr.

Memorial Library
Renovation Principles approved
Board of Library Trustees Meeting
May 28, 2014


Public Library District of Columbia
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. MEMORIAL LIBRARY
RENOVATION PRINCIPLES



The DC Public Library (DCPL) will optimize the utilization of the historic
landmarked Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library as a central library. This may
result in adding an additional 5
th
floor suite for use by the library to accommodate
the library program.

DCPL will emphasize the programmatic needs of District residents in the
renovation of the building while recognizing that a downtown central library will
also serve as a destination in the Nations Capital.

DCPL will focus on how the building and its library services interact with the
surrounding neighborhood including, but not limited to, neighbors, tourists, and
vulnerable populations.

DCPL will seek mixed-use options. For instance, mixed use within the structure
where library services occur and/or mixed-use with an addition above. All mixed-
use options will be judged from a financial, programmatic and ownership
framework.

DCPL will respect and honor the landmark including its interaction with the
appropriate regulatory bodies.

DCPL will respect and honor the historical significance of the building and the
legacy of its namesake Martin Luther King Jr. by encouraging a design that
ensures the vitality and functionality of the building as a 21st Century center for
learning, community and exploration.