Three experienced architects advise on library design Danny Tanzi | H2M Group Libraries are the only public facilities that provide services and access for all members of the community and that require an approach developed specifically for a library's community with regard to its building program. Many of our clients view their building projects as an opportunity to set an example and to educate their community. Designers and library staff must foster strong and open communication to allow the expertise of all involved parties to further the goals of the project and make it work for them—a strong project team will ensure a strong finished product. CASE STUDY We incorporated this philosophy into the design of the new Sayville Library, NY. We assembled a strong support staff and had the benefit of working with a motivated library director. From the outset, the library expressed a desire for sustainability and green features. We brought all of the available options to the table so library personnel could make educated project decisions. In the end, the building was designed with a geothermal heating/cooling system, photovoltaic solar panels to produce electricity, and specific attention to indoor space, ai r quality, and comfort, in addition to many other sustainable alternatives. Because of the constant discourse between the designers and the library, the goals of sustainability and energy efficiency were met within budget. David R. Moore II | Craig Gaulden Davis Architects Public libraries of any size should take advantage of recent technology in glazing systems and pay attention to the solar orientation of the building on the site to maximize daylighting opportunities, save energy, and create views to the exterior. In addition to the benefits that natural lighting brings, creating visual openness helps infuse the building with a sense of transparency that welcomes patrons. A design that is open and connected to the surrounding environment can make the library approachable, a “place to be” rather than a “place to visit.” CASE STUDY Etowah, NC, has a population of approximately 2700. Envisioned as a community landmark, the new facility features a flexible 3800 square foot public area containing the information desk, public computers, and seating, as well as the adult fiction, nonfiction, reference, new materials, and AV collections. The long, east–west axis of the library creates a due south orientation for the large glass façade to maximize daylighting opportunities and provide abundant views to the exterior. The use of fritted, high-performance glass reduces heat gain and glare in the summer while welcoming warmth during the winter. As a lantern on the hill, the library overlooks the Etowah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains and presents an illuminated invitation to explore the world and all the library has to offer. Chris Noll | Noll & Tam Architects Teen spaces should give young adults their own venue in which to socialize, communicate, and study (often all at the same time) and incorporate multimedia and audiovisual technology and many ways to sit and sprawl. It should encourage creative activities and provide opportunities for teens to share the results of their efforts through exhibits, performance, and other outlets. We work with local youth to include them in the design process, which helps us to find successful solutions that are specific to each youth community. CASE STUDY The renovation of the 20,000 square foot Carmichael Branch Library, CA, completely transformed the tired and dated look of the old library, incorporating expansive window walls that bring in abundant natural light. The vibrant teen area includes diner-style booths that create private study and social areas, a laptop computer “bar,” comfortable seating, playful lighting, a vibrant color palette, and artwork that reflects an upbeat mood. It has become a very popular space for teens and a model for future new branches and remodels in the Sacramento County Library system.