New construction has some unique advantages, allowing an architect a clean slate in which to erect their envisioned design. For library construction, as a public use facility, architects are treating these buildings as epicenters where people can meet and enjoy their love of reading.

The mixture of glass and copper-like metal cladding create a modern building design.The copper-looking material is Alucobond PLUS aluminum composite material in various custom colors to mimic the rustic look of copper. The faux copper finishes capture natural light, creating a further dimensional exterior. The remaining glass portions of the façade create an inviting design where passersby can see the goings-on of the library from outside.The Northside library in Columbus Ohio is a two-story facility with a strong emphasis on natural light.

From the inside, the library’s monolithic white interior is bright, making the books the star of the interior design. Again, the floor-to-ceiling glass creates unobstructed views to the outside. Additionally, the interior features colorful, communal seating arrangements where groups can meet in a more social atmosphere than in a traditional library setting.

Libraries are in transition. Once a point of knowledge dissemination and quiet introspection, they are becoming places to meet, socialize, study, hang out and plug in…The new Northside branch aims to capitalize on its distinctive urban nature and the ride of new development behind the libraries of today.

Currently the library sits at a junction of four significant urban vectors in Columbus; the Short North growing north, the University growing south, the Peach District bordering to the west, and Weinland Park to the east. Rather than one single contextual driver, the library is a reflection of this unique junction, and as such celebrates the scale, material and vibrancy of these neighborhoods.

Libraries are important structures to a community. They house the voices of the past and present and their ability to engage a new generation of readers is vital. Architects have the unique opportunity to play an instrumental role in a library’s popularity as these buildings can be built like Northside, a beautiful and engaging community landmark.