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Ramsey County Library - Maplewood

To meet the needs of the Maplewood community, Ramsey County and library staff decided to build a replacement 31,000 SF of branch library. The intent of the new library is to provide expanded library service to patrons while delivering a "wow" experience that will make the library an even more cherished part of the community. An extended entry canopy and native plantings, along with warm colored building materials welcome patrons from the street, wrap the exterior and nestle the building into the site. Inside, library collections are housed in a space whose height rises from an intimate reading room to a soaring reading space which becomes a warm glowing lantern and announces the library's presence to the community. The library is organized around a central lobby and reading porch. Breathtaking views of the adjacent Maplewood Sculpture Garden engage the patron upon entry, and continue to unfold throughout the library. The reference and circulation desks are located along the main circulation spine. Staff benefit from clear sight lines between desks and into the collection. The staff workrooms are open, flexible and support an efficient flow of materials. The planned automated sorting equipment in the workrooms will greatly reduce the task of repetitive sorting and improve ergonomics, while allowing staff more time to assist patrons personally. A multi-functional meeting space and coffee shop welcome the community for after-hours use. The design team has worked closely with library staff and Ramsey County to refine interior functional relationships, sight lines, material flow and safety and security concerns. A colorful palette of materials enlivens the interior while creating spatial variety for patrons to enjoy.

related quote
The rhythm of the anodized-aluminum facade like books on a bookshelf...existing trees incorporated into the outdoor deck. I would have loved to have been dropped off here as a kid.

- AIA Minnesota Awards Jury