FULTON COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM

The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System (AFPLS) serves the citizens of Fulton County and the City of Atlanta, including the portion of the city located in DeKalb County.  With 34 libraries and a collection of more than 2.5 million items, AFPLS is the largest library system in the state of Georgia and offers innovative programs, services and virtual resources tailored to meet the needs of each branch community. In 2008, voters supported a $275 million bond referendum to implement the Library Capital Improvement Program that involves the design, construction and equipping of new 8 new library facilities, the renovation and expansion of two existing libraries and the renovation of all other existing library facilities owned by the County.

Turner & Townsend Heery, in joint venture with H.J. Russell, provided construction phase program management services for Phase I of Fulton County Library System’s Library Building Program. The team was responsible for writing RFPs and contracts for 10 architects, 10 construction managers at-risk, special consultants for FF&E, wayfinding, technology, and geotechnical/materials testing/special inspections. The team was also responsible for writing building systems standards, a construction procedures manual, and LEED implementation plan; performing test-fits for site selection; and providing cost models, scheduling, and investigation of permit requirements. Phase I of the program included eight new libraries and two expanded libraries, all incorporating sustainable design, and construction features. 

One of the many goals of the program was to provide Fulton County with more efficient libraries that meet the operational needs of the staff and provide better service and experiences for patrons. These facilities include meeting rooms and other ancillary spaces available to the community. Additionally, each library was designed and constructed to be energy efficient, utilizing natural lighting and other sustainable features in achieving certifications from the U.S. Green Building Council as part of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. 

The team is continuing its role as Construction Program Manager for Phase II of the Library Building Program which includes renovation to 23 library branches, as well as, the system's downtown Atlanta Headquarters, Central Library.