Library Buildings around the World

included upgrades for seismic, mechanical, electrical and accessibility, as well as a reconfiguration of the spaces to better meet
current needs including current technology. Field Paoli are architects for this project in association with Tom Eliot Fisch. (Field)
Almaden Library / Community Center, San José, CA – USA 2006
Funds from two local bond measures were combined to create a new joint use library and community center set in an existing city
park. The building’s three wings accommodate a full service library; community room, gymnasium and fitness facilities; and
dedicated activity rooms for children, seniors and teens. The 65,000 square foot building was carefully sited to wrap around a group
of mature redwood trees and focus views to nearby park lands. Murals and a hanging glass sculpture by local artists are prominently
displayed in the new space. Sustainable features include green building materials, permeable paving, high efficiency lighting, and
maximum daylighting through clerestories and expansive courtyard windows. (Field)
Belmont Library, Belmont, CA – USA 2006
The new Belmont Library was designed to wrap around heritage oak trees in a three-acre neighborhood park. Expansive window
walls in the adult and children’s reading rooms face the park, providing ample north light and creating a magical space for reading
and study. Amenities include self-checkout, a café and small outdoor amphitheater, custom rosewood furnishings, homework lab,
and computer capacity to serve projected city needs for the next two decades. (Field)
Vineland Branch Library, San José, CA – USA 2004
Vineland Library is the first of 20 branch libraries in the City of San José funded by the local Branch Library Bond measure. The
24,000 square foot facility is based on the “San José Way” of library programming, incorporating retailing concepts such as new
book displays and active kids zones. While sensitive to the scale of surrounding homes, the library building created a strong civic
presence in a residential and commercial area with no existing public landmarks. (Field)
Fougeron Architecture, San Francisco, CA – USA
http://www.fougeron.com
Libraries:
Sunset Branch Public Library, Renovation, San Francisco, CA – USA 2007
The project involves the renovation of a historic Carnegie library built in 1918. Work includes the complete renovation of both levels
of the 9,500 square foot structure and the restoration of the exterior terra cotta and terrazzo. On the lower level, work included new
public restrooms, a new program room and the complete reconfiguration of the Children´s Room. Responsibilities also include
selection of new lighting, shelving and all furnishings. The project required an extensive review and approvals process with the
Landmark Preservation Board, the Mayor's office on Disability, the neighborhood community, and various user groups.
RELEVANCE TO BERKELEY PUBLIC LIBRARY:
•REHABILITATION OF EXISTING BUILDING
•HISTORIC PRESERVATION
•ACCESSIBILITY UPGRADES
•FURNITURE DESIGN
•IMPROVED & UPDATED BUILDING SYSTEMS
(Fougeron)
Ingleside Branch Public Library, San Francisco, CA – USA 2009
The Ingleside Branch Library in San Fransisco was designed by Fougeron Architecture / Group 4 Architecture who won the
national competition held by the San Francisco Public Library in 2002. The floor plan follows the urban grid and brings the
consequence of L-shaped scheme. This scheme allows the egg-shaped reading room and community areas enclose the inner
courtyard. The strong and light-filled design which is combined with sustainable design in this public building creates a welcoming
gathering space to everyone. (www//duldule.com)
Four Points Architectural Services, Inc., Akron, OH – USA
David G. Hawk, Mark A. Ferguson
http://www.4points.net
Libraries:
Bierce Library Learning Commons. The University of Akron, Akron, OH – USA 2011
40.000 sqf., € 2.000.000
The renovation creates a contemporary library atmosphere by removing most of the print material from the 40,000 s.f. first floor
and developing this space into a learning commons, based around digital technology. Integration of new furniture with the existing
furniture further creates group and private study areas. New private group study rooms and an informal learning studio are also
included. New casework was designed by Four Points for the Circulation Desk, MediaTech Services and User Support Services. The
designs for each take into account the functionality and workflow of the spaces for both the employees and guests. New flooring
materials were selected for the entire space that creates patterns that reinforce the functions and circulation patterns throughout the
space. New furniture selections, textiles, materials and colors for cushioned chairs, task chairs, cafe furniture, and multimedia desks
were also included in the scope. Four Points was the lead Architect, working with DesignGroup as the library design consultant.
The first phase of the project included renovation of 9,500 s.f. of offices on the 2nd and 3rd floors. The project also included an 825
s.f. Einstein Bagels location. (Four Points)
The Freelon Group: Design, Technology, Research Triangle Park, NC – USA
Philip G. Freelon, Timothy F. Winstead, Lewis H. Myers
http://www.freelon.com
Libraries:
Libraries are no longer mere repositories of the printed word. They have undergone a striking transformation, utilizing new
technologies and thoroughly redefining the scope of their public mission. While much of the traditional library remains relevant and
even essential - circulation, reference and periodicals - there are now new capabilities and innovative approaches that are driving the
library of today and the future. In charting this new path, libraries have drawn inspiration from the business, retailing and
hospitality sectors. Nimble, digitally-capable environments are now the norm - facilities where the quality of the patron experience is
as important as a well-organized card catalog. At Freelon, we understand these changes have positioned the library as an ever more
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