A Preview of the Newark Free Library

Chuck Wray, AIA, LEED AP, unveiled our preliminary design for the new Newark Free Library in Newark, Delaware, at the Friends of the Newark Free Library’s annual meeting. The event was covered by the Newark Post, whose writeup includes plans and renderings.

Chuck, the principal in charge of the project, presented our schematic-level design for the new library. Audience members and library staff expressed delight with the proposed design.

We were, to be honest with you, blown away. I literally had chills when I saw the outside.

DIANA BROWN, MANAGER OF LIBRARIES, NEW CASTLE COUNTY

The article notes the extensive community engagement process that informed the design. Multiple public meetings over the past year revealed distinct community needs and ambitions for the space. Unusual features of the design include music practice rooms and a performance space with tiered seating for more than 150 people, which will support the City of Newark’s popular music programming.

Chuck discussed the unique louvered shading system we designed for the building’s Library Avenue façade. Inspired by sound waves, the system will create a prominent presence at the busy intersection of Library Avenue and Main Street—something the current library building, dating to 1974, lacks.

As impressive as the outside of the building will look, inside is where the new library will really shine.

JOSH SHANNON, NEWARK POST

The article details the proposed space program, which includes dedicated children’s and teen areas, a demonstration kitchen, a craft room, a digital media lab, meeting and study rooms, and outdoor terraces.

The new library will be all-electric—no fossil fuels will be used in its operation. Sustainable elements include daylighting throughout the building and solar panels that will generate some of its electricity. The site, which features native plantings, is designed to make it easier for patrons to walk or bike to the library.