Attempting to enliven public space to facilitate relationships and build community is more involved than creating additional seating areas and social places. Commercial areas and community facilities play an important role but there must be other ways, especially those that are universally inclusive through access and being free. Residents of this neighborhood are in dire need of additional community amenities, especially a library. Compared to other areas of Vancouver, it is home to more people and less services.
One solution that may be feasible in these economic times may be a return to the tradition of the bookmobile. Combined with the Vancouver Public Library's fantastic on-line hold system, in which you can request book to be brought to your location, this solution may provide access to even the hardest to reach demographics.
http://www.harrison.lib.ms.us/images/history/bookmobile_1953%28lg%294.jpgOther types of libraries are becoming more common. Starting in Berkeley, tool libraries are thriving, especially in Portland. Columbus is even working on establishing satellite branches and a mobile unit. There are so many possibilities for events and programs associated with a tool library and the physical building of community. The possibility of a community kitchen is also intriguing, especially a mobile adjunct.
In a dense area of apartments, creating these elements of the typical house as part of the neighborhood extends the physical and social boundaries of home. The interactions and exchanges that could occur in this diverse community would be rewarding and educational and hopefully create connections and provide services that encourage long-term residence.
http://www.harrison.lib.ms.us/images/history/bookmobile_1953%28lg%295.jpg
No comments:
Post a Comment