Library Design Showcase 2012

Bridge City (Tex.) Elementary School Library

Bridge City (Tex.) Elementary School Library

Small Projects, Big Impact: Custom artwork and furnishings at Bridge City Elementary’s library incorporate the school’s cardinal mascot and a transportation theme. Custom crate seating surrounds the clock tower with its integrated puppet stage, while locomotive cars provide upholstered seating around the Storytime Stage.

Champaign (Ill.) Public Library, Douglass Branch

Champaign (Ill.) Public Library, Douglass Branch

Small Projects, Big Impact: A remodeling project at the Douglas Branch created a computer lab, as well as a new circulation desk and photocopying area. The project also added lighted shelving for new books and updated interior décor.

Franklin Lakes (N.J.) Public Library

Franklin Lakes (N.J.) Public Library

Small Projects, Big Impact: Franklin Lakes Public Library renovated the entrance to its children’s room to make it more enticing to children and parents. Oversized books and bright colors bring children’s literature to life.

University of New Brunswick, Saint John, Hans W. Klohn Commons

University of New Brunswick, Saint John, Hans W. Klohn Commons

Green Facilities: An electric elevator only requires power when going up; when coming down, it generates power for the Commons, which contains the library and a number of academic services. Floor-to-ceiling windows minimize the amount of artificial lighting the building requires, while recycled grey water is used to flush toilets.

District of Columbia Public Library, Tenley-Friendship Neighborhood Library

District of Columbia Public Library, Tenley-Friendship Neighborhood Library

Green Facilities: The LEED Gold–certified Tenley-Friendship Neighborhood Library offers extensive daylighting with sunscreens to filter direct sunlight, as well as occupancy sensors to control artificial-light levels. The building has a vegetative green roof, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, low-flow faucets, and dual-flush toilets.