Location: Kennett Square, PA
An existing 50-year-old, 11,000 SF, two-story library in the Borough of Kennett Square has outlived its usefulness and the Borough decided to replace it with a new downtown facility. The design team, working with the library staff, Borough staff and residents, programmed a new community facility that includes a 36,000 SF library, auditorium and a 47-car garage.
The community wanted a new, contemporary library that would help to revitalize the historic downtown, so the design team conducted a series of community ‘visioning’ charrettes to discuss urban design issues, library programs and services, and architectural character. A sloped, 26,000 SF site, a gateway to downtown Kennett Square, was selected and a two-story facility was designed. Beneath this facility, the parking garage was designed into the slope, hidden except for the garage entrance. The design will be a lantern as one enters town, providing spectacular views over the town and a small civic plaza at the entry.
The design has been embraced by the community as is waiting funding, expected in early 2018.
