- Use of brick to tie in with commercial buildings on the square, and limestone to echo the materials used in the courthouse and City Hall. The building’s metal roof will be slightly pitched so water will drain off rather than pond and create the potential for leaks. We plan to use durable and low-maintenance materials to minimize operating costs and maximize the building’s longevity.
- An atrium-like front entrance is set back from the sidewalk and framed by columns to create a small, partially covered plaza space for benches and landscaping. On either side of the entrance, the building comes to the existing line of the sidewalk. This arrangement also breaks up the visual line of the building. The plaza extends to the street, adding more green space and an inviting area for pedestrians.
- On the second floor, a covered terrace overlooking East Main Street continues this treatment and provides open air space for reading, chatting or simply watching the view. Originally planned for the rear of the building, the terrace was moved to the front to take advantage of the view and to simplify any future expansion of the rear of the second floor.
- Large windows on both floors of the front let in light for readers and also provide an attractive, friendly facade for passersby.
- An atrium forms the center of the building, with windows in the top to allow light to enter. The roofline of the atrium is higher than the rest of the building, breaking up the visual line of the structure and helping it fit in better with neighboring structures.
- Covered drive-up access in the rear for use by those with limited mobility or to drop off books in bad weather. It also helps protect patrons who park in the back and enter the library through the rear entrance.
|
