Civic Design
Location:
New Berlin, WI
New Berlin, WI
Scope:
Provided architectural design services for a new 55,000 sq. ft. library
Provided architectural design services for a new 55,000 sq. ft. library
New Berlin Public Library
New Berlin, WIThe New Berlin Public Library approached PRA with a need for a warm and welcoming community space that would serve a diverse set of users and act as a catalyst to change in the City. To meet this challenge, we designed a new 50,000 sq. ft. library that features a variety of spaces that serves multiple community needs.
Read moreOn the edge of a large natural area, this project is designed to look as though it “belongs on the prairie.” The focal point of the new prairie-style library is the two-story atrium space. This space serves to orient visitors to the variety of functions within the building and features warm-toned slate floors and extensive maple and oak millwork. Other notable features of the New Berlin Public Library includes a community meeting room for 150, a friends store, patron access to after-hours materials lockers, a drive-up service window, a children’s programming area, a business resource area, a computer lab, a local history room, and quiet reading areas.
Special attention was paid to integrated storage and efficient distribution of collections. Technology has been integrated into the building design to support wireless telephones, wireless networking, patron self-checkout, campus-wide door controls and video cameras, and support for high-bandwidth multi-media communication. Many of these technologies were “firsts” in the area. In fact, the New Berlin Public Library is the first mid-west installation of a sophisticated automated RFID materials check-in and sorting system.
New Berlin Public Library Children's Area
The children's library takes the prairie style geometry and color palette and interprets it in a more playful manner
New Berlin Public Library Teen Area
The teen area features a variety and seating and an abundance of natural sunlight , and is located to physically represent the "Inbetween ness" of teenages.
New Berlin Public Library Reading Area
The quiet reading area focuses on a fireplace made of the building's brick and stone and is complimented by built-in bookcases of oak
New Berlin Public Library Reading Area
A variety of reading areas were design that feature lounge seating and custom made bookshelves
New Berlin Public Library PAC Station
The public access catalog computer station is integrated directly into the stacks to increase the discovery process.
New Berlin Public Library Conference Room
The boardroom enjoys panoramic views including into the entry atrium. A custom table, prairie style lights, and famous literary quotes complete this dramatic space. It is located to be easily viewed by the public and the quotes provide reminders of the Boards responsbility.
New Berlin Public Library Exterior and Entrance
The new 50,000 square foot library features a prairie style design and a warm palette of natural materials, including brick, stone and metal
New Berlin Public Library Lobby
New Berlin Library Lobby carefully balances staff view with easy access to resources and self-check.
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