It’s National Library Week – and we are excited to share…
The impact of photographer Lara Swimmer’s images is evident in the recently published book, “READING ROOM: New & Reimagined Libraries of the American West,” (Artifice Publishing), by architectural writer Laura Raskin. With two of our recently completed Spokane libraries featured in this visual journey, the book explores creative and innovative designs shaping the future of learning, exploration, and gathering in libraries.
We’ve had the privilege of collaborating with Lara over the years, and value the discerning eye and perspective she brings in capturing the experience of place through images. This curated collection of her library images clearly celebrates the importance of libraries as pillars in their communities.
The Hive
This innovative collaboration with both a school and library district expands the concept of a ‘library’ to a collection of spaces that can be ‘checked out’ 24/7 for creating, training, and meeting. Inspired by its location in a busy commercial area, it creatively utilizes simple materials and transparently puts activities on display.
Liberty Park Library
Located in a historic park, this library is rooted to its unique place through form and materiality. Its design is reminiscent of familiar picnic shelters with its honest and expressive structure while color, tone, and texture reference regional roots in logging and farming. It’s bright, open floorplan brings in natural daylight and offers views to the park and nearby basalt cliffs