HASTINGS, Neb. – The Hastings Public Library is in the process of creating an outdoor common space for its visitors, and is asking for the public's help to move forward.

HPL recently held a public open house to show off two potential designs for its outdoor programming and green space project, located just south of the library. 

"The vision is just to have a lovely park for people to come, but the main reason behind it is to have a nice space for our outdoor programming," said Hastings Library Programming and Collections Supervisor Samantha Rundle. "Just get the kids outside, let them make a mess, let them be noisy, and experience nature."

The Hastings Library Foundation purchased the land in May 2022, and tore down a former gas station and auto shop on the property in 2023. 

At this stage of design, HPL and the architecture firm have narrowed options down to two green space design choices. 

Rundle says the library is considering several features to bring to the green space.

"One thing we're looking at is a StoryWalk, for families to walk through the garden or through the park and read a story together," said Rundle. "We're also considering colored concrete that could be fun for the kids, and especially the green space, if they just want to go outside and run around."

Potential additions to the space include native flowers and grass, an overhead canopy, plus space for outdoor activities. 

The library is asking for the public's feedback and opinions in the form of a survey before the final design is chosen. 

"Their feedback is crucial, otherwise we're just guessing, and it's really hard to put words into the mouth of an entire community. We want everyone's feedback to help us just drive what we do."