Commission weighs book-bench options; leans toward flexible reading nook and partnerships with libraries

The commission discussed the proposed book-bench public art project on May 12 and directed staff to explore a more flexible reading-nook concept that blends artist-built seating, chairs and small tables with a curated book collection rather than a single heavy book-sculpture bench.

Staff reported site visits to the tavern-area bench and said the public-works director has reviewed structural ideas. Commissioners noted the bench as conceived is heavy and that a sculptural reading-nook composed of multiple book-themed chairs or small seating elements would be more inviting and usable. The meeting record shows a suggested budget figure for the book-bench project of about $5,000 and discussion of using a covered structure to draw visitors into the Visitor Center patio.

Commissioners suggested several potential book sources: solicitations for community donations, outreach to local used-bookstores, and partnering with the King County Library System (KCLS) Friends groups to obtain decommissioned titles in bulk. Administrator McNabb offered to help locate Friends-of-the-Library contacts. Commissioners also recommended carving or cutting spines to reduce weight if original books are used and discussed the potential of commissioning an artist to create a consistent, curated appearance for the seating elements.

Staff will follow up by contacting library partners and potential book sources, preparing sketches of the reading-nook concept and returning with cost estimates and sample designs. No final procurement or artist selection was made at this meeting.