Libraries continue to be popular places for people of all ages; to study or read, conduct research, or gather to learn and work collaboratively. Fortunately, technology has served to enhance the library experience, rather than replace it outright, as might have been expected. With the evolving needs and uses of contemporary libraries, library design has also had to evolve to keep pace.
Historic library buildings that have served their local communities for decades or even centuries can be found from one end of Massachusetts to the other, and LPA|A has had the chance to play a role in renovating several in Central Massachusetts over the years. Our most significant library renovation project to date is the Shrewsbury Public Library, a beloved 1903 building that needed a substantial expansion and upgrading as well as historic preservation.
“It was this firm’s vision and design for the building, and responsiveness to the community that garnered support throughout the town, and ultimately led to a successful override vote and grassroots fundraising.”
In our k-12 public schools, media centers have also adapted for contemporary needs. Public school libraries offer an opportunity to create age-appropriate facilities that support the educational programs of each school. In Marlborough, district-wide overcrowding at the elementary level had led to the elimination of libraries to reallocate that space. The Richer Elementary project will allow the district to bring back their school libraries throughout the district. They have specifically requested a maker space, flexible seating options, and classroom spaces within their new media center.
In Westborough, LPA|A conducted a feasibility study for their public library, supporting their fundraising efforts with key information and graphics. The scope changed over the course of several years, adjusting to difficult funding constraints, but creative problem-solving to meet programmatic needs within taxpayer-funded budgets is something with which LPA|A has extensive experience. The final repair project implemented strategic interventions to better serve the community, with upgrades to the children’s programming space, and reallocation of space for teens and adults, as well as a new HVAC system and roof replacement.
