When I look at my building, I see space that I try to get used as much as possible. There is still alot of wasted space that could be used in a much better fashion. However, I think the building’s main problem was that people didn’t know it existed. The entire staff worked on outreach to the community and promoting the programs and the meeting room space. The more people we bring into the meeting rooms, the more exposure they have to our programs and print and electronic collections. We spent a few months hosting a FEMA van in front of the building and it was great PR for us.

In NYC at least, the landmark regulations pretty much only apply to the exterior of the buildings. Most Carnegies have lots of space and definite aesthetic appeal. People like to sit in pretty buildings which is why the B&N Union Square cafe is always packed. The trick is to be imaginative in its redesign so that none of it is wasted and most of it is open to the public for a myriad of uses. Rethink how you use the space. Even if you can’t rip down walls, rethink how you use every foot.

The other trick is to get out of the building and promote its services absolutely everywhere and don’t assume that people get everything from online.