Columbus Metropolitan Library / NBBJ

Columbus Metropolitan Library / NBBJ - Image 2 of 15Columbus Metropolitan Library / NBBJ - Image 3 of 15Columbus Metropolitan Library / NBBJ - Windows, Chair, FacadeColumbus Metropolitan Library / NBBJ - Image 5 of 15Columbus Metropolitan Library / NBBJ - More Images+ 10

Columbus Metropolitan Library / NBBJ - Image 3 of 15
© Matt Carbone/Sean Airhart

Text description provided by the architects. The new Driving Park Branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library addresses what it means to be a library in the Information Age, while providing an underserved neighborhood with a catalyst for community and positive change.

Columbus Metropolitan Library / NBBJ - Windows, Chair, Facade
© Matt Carbone/Sean Airhart

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 Driving Park Branch turns the library inside-out, placing traditional modes of library patronage — like focused reading — at the center of the building, while social, interactive functions are located along the perimeter, where they benefit from natural light and engagement with the street.

Columbus Metropolitan Library / NBBJ - Image 5 of 15
© Matt Carbone/Sean Airhart

Because Driving Park was historically known for racing, the project incorporates a “racetrack” concept to organize the different functions, shape the building envelope, and display books and other media. With a transparent street frontage, public meeting rooms, services for neighborhood youth and technology, the Driving Park Branch is not merely a passive provider of information, but also an active participant in connecting community.

Columbus Metropolitan Library / NBBJ - Image 6 of 15
© Matt Carbone/Sean Airhart

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Project location

Address:1422 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, OH 43205, USA

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Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "Columbus Metropolitan Library / NBBJ" 09 Dec 2014. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/571262/columbus-metropolitan-library-nbbj> ISSN 0719-8884

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