The Worcester Public Library
Worcester, Massachusetts
- 2002 Worcester Design Award
- 2002 Silver Hammer Award
- AIA Western MA Chapter Design Award
Tappé’s Schematic Design efforts resulted in the receipt of the second largest grant awarded by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to a library project.
As the second largest public library in Massachusetts, the Worcester Public Library is a significant civic building located on the perimeter of Worcester Common. Across from City Hall, the building helps define a major public space within the city and has contributed to the revitalization and rebirth of the downtown area. The new stone façade is defined by the extension of a pre-existing arcade with glowing translucent stone cladding above and by an oval-shaped bay. The interiors integrate public art through the use of elements such as art glass panels and decorative metal gates.
Every aspect of the library is in a new and more convenient location and the character of these areas is imbued with a consistent design theme that creates an ambiance of lightness. A linear plan organization draws patrons from dual entrances along a “collection interface zone”—which features special lighting, furnishings, and displays—to elliptical reading rooms on two levels that feature views of Worcester Common.
- 1960’s urban library redefined for the 21st Century
- Cast-in-place concrete building system created a unique design challenge to implement state-of-the-art HVAC and Fire Suppression systems
- The expanded library features: Community Technology Center, extensive public access computers, large Children’s Room with increased capacity for seating, books, and computers, Talking Book Library (for visually impaired patrons) and Public Meeting Rooms for use by Community organizations
