The architecture firm Snøhetta released renderings of a new research library at Temple University, according to Dezeen.
On one hand, with open spaces, study areas, and a green roof, the new facility will help people rethink what a research library even is.
"Snøhetta's design challenges the traditional typology of the research library solely as a repository for books and archives, and instead provides a diversity of spaces that will spark chance encounters, enable collaboration, and encourage knowledge-sharing amongst its users," the firm said in a statement.
But then again, the library will contain a lot of books. Two million volumes can be accessed by an automated retrieval system that will fetch books stored two stories above ground and two stories below. So yes, it will still be a repository for books and archives.
The building will include a domed atrium, arched wooden entrances, vertical sections of rough stone, and large panels of pleated frameless glass.
The 225,000-sf library is expected to open in 2018. Snohetta is working in collaboration with architecture and engineering firm Stantec.
Related Stories
Digital Twin | May 24, 2021
Digital twin’s value propositions for the built environment, explained
Ernst & Young’s white paper makes its cases for the technology’s myriad benefits.
Libraries | May 14, 2021
Five projects receive 2021 AIA/ALA Library Building Award
A six-person jury selected the winning projects.
Libraries | Apr 8, 2021
Stanley A. Milner Library Renewal project completes in Edmonton
Teeple Architects designed the project.
Libraries | Mar 25, 2021
The academic library: Unlocking the secret playbook for first generation college students
Academic libraries and librarians have been reinventing themselves to unlock the secret playbook that holds some students back.
Market Data | Feb 24, 2021
2021 won’t be a growth year for construction spending, says latest JLL forecast
Predicts second-half improvement toward normalization next year.
Giants 400 | Dec 16, 2020
Download a PDF of all 2020 Giants 400 Rankings
This 70-page PDF features AEC firm rankings across 51 building sectors, disciplines, and specialty services.
Giants 400 | Dec 3, 2020
2020 Cultural Facilities Giants: Top architecture, engineering, and construction firms in the U.S. cultural facilities sector
AECOM, Arup, and Populous head BD+C's rankings of the nation's largest cultural facilities sector architecture, engineering, and construction firms, as reported in the 2020 Giants 400 Report.
Libraries | Nov 30, 2020
Adjaye Associates reveals design of the Thabo Mbeki Presidential Library
The project is located in Johannesburg.
Libraries | Oct 22, 2020
Envisioning libraries as community hubs
In the following, HGA Vice President and Senior Designer Jane Dedering discusses her passion for libraries, community engagement, and how the current pandemic will influence libraries moving forward.
Libraries | Oct 21, 2020
Hôtel particulier built in 1642 becomes a media library and park
The project is located in Pélissanne.