Library
Kennett Square Library.
Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
An existing 50-year-old library in Kennett Square had outlived its usefulness and the Kennett Square 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, 35,000 SF library with a 19-space parking lot. This new facility is 24,000 SF larger than the previous library. A sloped site, that is a gateway to downtown, was selected. The three-story facility was designed with the library on the upper two levels and a lecture hall in the basement. The new library will be a lantern as one enters town and will provide spectacular views over the town.
The community wanted a new, contemporary library that would help to revitalize the historic downtown. The design team conducted a series of community charrettes to discuss the urban design issues, library services, Borough needs, and architectural character.
