Building Community

All libraries help to build their communities, of course, simply by being and by providing services and programs to all who choose to take part. These buildings, however, are notable for their community-focused features.

Planning for an expansion and remodel of the Windsor (Colo.)-Severance Library was nearly complete in May 2008, when the town of Windsor was devastated by a tornado. The library received no structural damage, however, and the renovation proceeded, allowing the library to provide an air of self-assurance as the community recovers.

All libraries help to build their communities, of course, simply by being and by providing services and programs to all who choose to take part. These buildings, however, are notable for their community-focused features.

All libraries help to build their communities, of course, simply by being and by providing services and programs to all who choose to take part. These buildings, however, are notable for their community-focused features.

All libraries help to build their communities, of course, simply by being and by providing services and programs to all who choose to take part. These buildings, however, are notable for their community-focused features.

All libraries help to build their communities, of course, simply by being and by providing services and programs to all who choose to take part. These buildings, however, are notable for their community-focused features.

An offset skylight helps illuminate the Fine Arts Rotunda at Monroe Township (N.J.) Public Library, which also features a café with vending machines, bookstore-style seating, a staffed drive-through window, and a fireplace lounge.

Architect: Arcari + Iovino Architects

All libraries help to build their communities, of course, simply by being and by providing services and programs to all who choose to take part. These buildings, however, are notable for their community-focused features.

All libraries help to build their communities, of course, simply by being and by providing services and programs to all who choose to take part. These buildings, however, are notable for their community-focused features.

All libraries help to build their communities, of course, simply by being and by providing services and programs to all who choose to take part. These buildings, however, are notable for their community-focused features.

All libraries help to build their communities, of course, simply by being and by providing services and programs to all who choose to take part. These buildings, however, are notable for their community-focused features.

The heart of Darien (Conn.) Library is “Main Street”, which occupies much of the first floor and features electronic informational displays, a café for socializing, the digital media collection, and a community auditorium. The more traditional, and quieter, section of the library occupies the second floor.

All libraries help to build their communities, of course, simply by being and by providing services and programs to all who choose to take part. These buildings, however, are notable for their community-focused features.