The new Adams Street Library is the Brooklyn Public Library’s first new branch to open in more than twenty years. Extensive, architect-led community outreach within neighboring Dumbo, Vinegar Hill, and the Farragut Houses indicated that children’s spaces and programming was lacking – and important — to residents across the diverse neighborhoods. The design therefore puts children at its center, the envelope incorporating spaces for learning activities, story time, books, reading and views out to Brooklyn Bridge Park. The library also offers new collections, technology and extensive programming for teens and young adults in a dedicated teens area.
Two large, flexible multipurpose spaces with stackable chairs and foldable tables, whiteboards and a kitchenette provide much-needed space for community gathering and meeting. Technology is readily accessible to patrons, with free Wi-Fi throughout, hard-wired charging and power built into the reading tables, and projection capability in the large community room. The library also has generous spaces for staff and public, gender-inclusive restrooms.
Team:
Architect: WORKac
Photography: Bruce Damonte
Structural: LERA
MEP: DOSE Engineering
Lighting: Tillotson Design Associates
Graphics: Linked By Air
Contractor: Shawmut Design & Construction
Code: CCBS Consultants
AV/IT: Cerami
Cost: Costrak Consulting
