Page 34 - Spring_2018

ArchDC Spring 2018.qxp_Fall 2017 2/22/18 9:12 AM Page 32

Main reading room.
not designed by CORE—is wide open to the library, allowing One unexpected amenity in this particular branch is an internal
curious patrons to wander over, browse through new books, or courtyard that brings daylight to the back of the stacks and to the
perhaps learn about upcoming library programs. When the library children’s area. As of this writing, the courtyard is bare—it’s still
is closed, the two spaces are separated by a secure but see-through winter after all, and the building has not been open long—but DCPL
metal curtain, potentially encouraging café-goers to return by day plans to take advantage of this enclosed outdoor space in the
and explore the library’s offerings. future. Readers may have the unusual opportunity to enjoy a book
The library proper is L-shaped in plan. Complementing the outside without even having to check it out. Informal outdoor
wing running along L Street is another one reaching into the depths lectures and other planned programs are also likely at some point.
of the building. This interior wing includes special reading areas The West End library was the first—and, so far, the only—
for younger and older children, an informal space for children’s DCPL branch to be built through a public/private partnership, in
programs, a small conference room, and a large public meeting this case involving Eastbanc, Inc., the developer of the base building.
room that is accessible after hours through a dedicated door on “We had to meet with Eastbanc regularly, but also with DCPL and
23rd Street and is available to community groups such as the the [base building] architects,” said Stewart. “There were lots of
Advisory Neighborhood Commission. A trellis-like structure players who contributed to this project.” Fortunately, the finished
composed of wavy boards spans the children’s areas, which are library shows no signs of design by committee. It is a coherent but
full of brightly colored furniture and surrounded by wood lattice lively work of architecture in keeping with the high standards
walls, defining a distinct kid-friendly volume within the larger recently set forth by DCPL.
space. The circulation services area is at the juncture between the
two wings, allowing library staff to monitor almost the entire
space from one central spot.

32 LATEST EDITION