Library Buildings around the World

VP Sam Overton. “The Estelle M. Black Library, with its current technologies, interactive seating and study areas, and aesthetic
statement, is a testimony to that mission.” ( http://www.ibhe.org )
University Center, College of Lake County, Grayslake, IL – USA 2005
see also: HOK
91.000 sqf., $ 19.925.000
A building combining higher education and workforce development shows its dual personality.
The first facility of its kind in Illinois, the 91,000-square-foot University Center of Lake County merges degree and workforce
development programs from 18 higher education institutions. Legat and HOK set out to create a county hub for academic and
professional advancement, while enhancing the client’s visibility. The primary design challenge involved harmonizing with other
facilities on a community college campus, yet distinguishing the client as a distinct entity, and responding to a key audience of
working professionals.
Morton College. Library Renovation, Cicero, IL – USA 2004
19.000 sqf., $ 1.144.000
In order to respond to changing teaching and learning methodologies, as well as recent advancements in library technologies, the
library at Morton College was renovated and reorganized. In addition to upgraded programmatic functions, the renovated space
includes a new cyber cafe, group-study rooms, expanded technology-access areas, wireless internet capabilities, an gallery, a
bibliographic instruction classroom, and an academic resource room for faculty and staff. The organization of the facility puts the
public spaces adjacent to the all-glass entry, and the more private spaces are on the upper level. The circulation desk, with a large
canted feature wall behind it, was moved to the center of the library, highlighting a north/south axis that runs through the space.
This axis is expressed in the ceiling and floor patterns, and terminates at help desk “nodes.” Many of the design decisions were
driven by the desire to create clear sightlines, a logical wayfinding system and a renewed sense of energy throughout the space.
The new design has transformed the library at Morton College into a true destination point for students, faculty, staff and the
community. "Great transformation, very mod!"--2005 jury . ( http://scholdesigns.com )
Lerner, Ladds + Bartels, Pawtucket, RI – USA
http://www.llbarch.com
Libraries:
Boyden Library, Boden, MA – USA on design
The existing Boyden Library in Foxborough, built from 1967-1968, is a surviving example of mid-century brutalist architecture. By
its design and nature of untouched longevity, it is a beautifully honest representation of construction method and structural
integrity, yet was in need of an expansion and reconfiguration. A proposed renovation of the existing 20,833 sf space included
replacement of mechanical systems, roofing, windows, elevator, addressing all handicap accessibility issues, and removal of all
asbestos.
Working closely with the trustees, building committee, and neighboring community, the new addition is designed to complement the
original building geometry and material palette of concrete, glass and monolithic limestone panels. It takes cues in interpreting the
original design by continuing the horizontal datum and patterns of fenestration for a unified building. The additional 13,800 sf
provides much-needed space to the library's growing collection for the next 20 years. The top floor houses an inviting and accessible
children's area which doubled the size of the existing area. Another program element in high demand from the community was a
new books and media area which is located on the ground floor. Additionally, more than thirty computers are available to the public
and an improved meeting room provides space for Foxborough's community groups and organizations.
The $11.6 million project is partially funded through a $3.6 million construction grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library
Commissions and an additional $7.5 million of town-approved funding. Other funds will come from a fundraising campaign and
private funds which includes money from the library’s trust fund and donations. (Lerner)
Wayland Public Library, Wayland, MA – USA on design
For the past 104 years the Wayland Public Library has really been the true Community Center for the Town located in the “Town
Center.” Throughout its history the library has been fortunate to benefit from some incredible forward thinking community
members who have donated both the land and funds to create the magnificent building. Like many adored historic properties and
libraries that are so well used, the current building is inappropriate for today’s level of use for a public space. In 2001 the Long
Range Planning Committee surveyed and tabulated the results of over 650 citizens to identify the “perfect library” for Wayland.
One of the highest priorities of the respondents included more usable and accessible spaces throughout. The challenge extends to the
site as well. With the increase in parking that this project requires, the site developments, including parking, landscaping, building
approach and entry are incredibly important. (Lerner)
Walpole Public Library, Walpole, MA – USA 2012
In the historic context of New England, the Walpole Public Library is a rare new building sited adjacent to the town hall and historic
Blackburn Hall and just steps away from downtown. LLB Architects had been working with the Walpole community since 2007
when we were asked to re-envision and improve upon the previous library design, accepted for a construction grant from the
Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. After a long, twenty-year process and funding approval by a slim margin, the
community of Walpole can be proud of their new library.
The design of the new 32,000 sf building uses traditional architectural textures, colors, and fundamentals of traditional architecture
to respond to the New England context. The library program is organized around four masses encased in fiber cement panels which
anchor the building’s entries. In between them, generous circulation paths, a sculptural staircase, and skylights create a feeling of
openness and lightness. The difference in treatment and fenestration on each side of the library appropriately responds to its site
orientation and the environmental effects on them.
On the interior, service desks for circulation, reference, and the children’s area are centrally located for the highest visibility and
security with the minimum number of staff. There are areas dedicated for young children, which includes a program room for
community events; young adults, with computers and comfortable seating for lounging; and patrons looking for new books and
media, or reference materials, or any of the 110,000 items (and counting) in the library’s collection. One of the areas in the library
that has grown in popularity is the quiet study rooms, designed with floor to ceiling glass, which allow for a sense of privacy and
territory, but a sense of security as well.
The building is expected to receive LEED Silver certification and makes use of both passive sustainable strategies as well as active
strategies. The incorporation of a green roof over the one-story wing creates a better insulated space for the program area. Natural
light floods the interior spaces through the surrounding glazing and skylights and reduces the need for artificial lighting. The use of
a photovoltaic panel system has assisted in generating over 5% of the building’s utility features onsite, as well reducing the baseline
energy use by nearly 25%. A rain garden at the entry of the building creates a small stream of rainwater from the roof to feed native
plantings and remain within onsite in a retention pond. To further promote sustainable design, significant efforts were made to use
both local and high-recycled content materials.
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