Supporting the design and community engagement processes for Multnomah Library’s Holgate + Midland Library renovations through a cohort model.

Holgate and Midland Library Renderings by Bora Architects

About: On November 3, 2020, Multnomah County voters approved Measure 26-211 to expand and modernize library spaces (~$387 million bond by (1) enlarging and renovating eight county libraries, (2) building a ‘flagship’ library in East County, (3) adding speed to library internet, and (4) creating a handling center to disburse materials across the library system.

In collaboration with Bora Architects, Multnomah Library staff, and other community members and organizations, Colloqate Design integrated a cohort of 14 Community Design Advocates (CDAs)—representing or regularly engaging with the most impacted stakeholder groups of the renovation and construction projects—into the design process, with an emphasis on Design Justice Principles.

My Role: I was recruited to support the design for both the Holgate and Midland libraries; as a CDA, I led a series of interviews and focus groups centering teens and youth accessing library services at or near the McDaniel High School area. Our group of CDAs led engagement ranging from collaging with youth and families, engaging indigenous studies classes, attending community festivals, hosting focus groups, to conversations over tea.