In July 2024, Jefferson County Public Library (JCPL) acquired a 9.4-acre site located at the intersection of Wilkerson Court, 92nd Avenue, and Candelas Parkway in Northwest Jefferson County. This site will serve as the future home of a new 30,000-square-foot library, designed to meet the evolving needs of the community. Anderson Hallas Architects is spearheading the architectural design, while Radian led the community engagement efforts to ensure the library truly reflects the residents it will serve.

Radian’s engagement process prioritized inclusivity, accessibility, and transparency, translating community priorities and feedback into design and programming recommendations. Radian met with families, youth, and seniors on their terms by attending local events, hosting open houses for in-depth discussions, and collaborating with JCPL to distribute a survey that garnered feedback from over 600 participants. Radian facilitated a wide range of bilingual engagement opportunities including sticker voting, custom bookmarks, drawing and collage activities, mad lib exercises, and inspiration boards to build enthusiasm and inspire local neighbors to think creatively. These diverse engagement strategies ensured that all community members were included, heard, and valued in the co-creation of this new library.

Insights gathered from surveys, interviews, and community events have been transparently documented in the Community Engagement Report. This report, which was presented to the JCPL Board of Trustees, highlights the community’s aspirations and priorities for the new library. This milestone marks a significant step forward in aligning the library’s design and programming with the unique needs and vision of the Northwest Jefferson County community.