Overview

The New Public Library is an in-depth design study of an exemplary collection of recent public libraries, and the historical precedents that have informed and inspired their development. An introductory overview presents seven critical themes that characterize public library design, past and present, highlighting the expressive architectural potential of this unique and important building type. A survey of over 40 historically significant libraries traces the development of the building type over time, with a primary focus on precedents from the US and northern Europe, where the modern public library originated, and its design has been most comprehensively developed. A selection of nearly 50 contemporary projects from the past 30 years focuses on the most current developments in public library design, with a diverse and varied collection of work by over 35 regional, national, and international design firms. Highly visual in its presentation, the study includes 885 color photographs and illustrations, and 195 scale drawings.

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9781138326705

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Reviews

The New Public Library is a fascinating study of library design in time. The book is lavishly illustrated, with plenty of color and black and white images and drawings to support the extensively researched text. It is mouth-watering in equal measure for architects, designers, librarians and library historians. The book can inspire worldwide travel, but can also be enjoyed by armchair-travelers. Sergio Dogliani, Idea Store, Tower Hamlets (London, UK)

Author Information

R. Thomas Hille is an architect, educator, and researcher based in Seattle, Washington, USA. His previous books on architecture and design include Modern Schools and Inside the Large-Small House.

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