A 1932 branch of the San Francisco Public Library, the Anza Branch Library retained its original charm during the 8,222 square foot addition project, including the hand-stenciled ceiling throughout the main and children’s areas and a hand-painted tiled entryway. Original 1941 furniture was refurbished as well. CREDITS: DPW Bureau of Architecture, architects; photo, Michael Kromat.
The Dwight Foster Public Library, Fort Atkinson, WI, has seen its third addition since its 1916 origin. Magisterial windows in the youth department shed light on the upside-down reading tree created by Actual Size Artworks, because using the library can turn your thoughts upside down.
CREDITS: Uihlein-Wilson Architects, architects; photo, Michael Kienitz.
Three times is also the charm for the Mamaroneck Public Library, NY. This addition to the 1927 Classical Revival building includes a new children’s wing and a dedicated teen center.
CREDITS: BKSK Architects, LLP, architects; photo, Jeff Goldberg/Esto.
About Bette-Lee Fox
The newly expanded and renovated Dwight Foster Public Library is one of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin's, crown jewels. In all three of its building programs throughout the past century, the library has retained its historical charm while being updated to meet the ever-changing needs of patrons. The youth department is bright, airy and a big draw to children of all ages. Anyone passing through Fort Atkinson should stop in for a tour!
And that's not all. A community mural project using handmade paper is also worth a have-a-look. And a new entrance to the Children's Library looks like a Caldicott Book Award winner. It is being installed this weekend. Luckily our library believes that art is important to the learning and creative process. Original artwork is featured throughout the library.