Central Library and Phoenix Park are located at the literal center of our city and were known as a hotbed for homelessness, mental illness and criminal activity. Lexington Public Library worked with our partners to encourage more activity in the park, specifically to bring families to the downtown spaces. Inside Central Library, we created additional family spaces and play areas and streamlined programs to encourage customers to stay longer and interact with each other.

We evaluated the spaces, users and general environment in partnership with public and nonprofit entities. We implemented a series of physical changes to the spaces, designed to invite more people into the space, and designed programs to entice new user groups, such as working professionals and young families, into the area. The consistent programming combined with the physical changes reduced criminal activity and increased usage of these centrally located public spaces.

People of all backgrounds gathered in the park and library throughout the summer months. Vandalism, crime and violence significantly decreased while usage skyrocketed. Suburban families ventured downtown and have continued to attend Central Library for programming and the new children’s playspace. Adults have embraced play-based learning at the library, reintroducing them to the public library as a place for fun, and expanding their understanding of what a modern library can be for its community.