"In my lifetime, it has always been a venue of access to the African American community in particular," said Erica Atwood, who will solicit ideas from Merriam patrons and others "and have them decide how they want the history to be represented. It could a special museum, could be something in the lobby, it could be some interactive projection that is there, it could be making sure the programming is reflective of the demographics of the city," she said.