The Saddlebrook Design Team strived from day one to create a “joint facility that works!”  The exciting aspect of three groups with similar yet supporting goals: lifetime learning, reading, fitness, community, all come together here.  The organizing factor, the Commons, is the “Front Porch” to all partners.  Functioning much like the front porch, it is a welcoming place for meetings, gatherings, art, display, entry and security.  The Commons supports the cooperation and integration in this landmark facility.

The Saddlebrook Joint Facility project is a collaborative effort between the Omaha Public Schools, Omaha Public Library and City of Omaha Parks and Recreation for a community based public use facility.  The design of the Saddlebrook Joint Facility represents a joining of diverse entities and services into a single dynamic whole.  This facilitates cooperation in reaching goals, teaching lessons and shows life long learning / fitness in action.  The 111, 056 SF facility is organized around a central “Commons” hub, which services as the circulatory and symbolic center of the building.  Views from all three administration or information desks provide excellent visibility of the Commons activities and approaches. The building is scheduled to open Fall of 2009.