Fort Smith Public Libraries

Overview

The need to improve and expand the Library’s facilities led to the construction of three new branch libraries. These new facilities, along with a new main branch, give every resident access to a library within his/her quadrant of the City.

The exterior expression of the Libraries are founded in traditional architecture. The intent is to establish a strong and memorable physical image of the library in the community, both as a civic building and as part of a library system by sharing a similar vocabulary of architectural expression and material selection.

A special feature is the park-like “civic” garden, which mediates and relaxes the space between the urban and pedestrian environments. This transitional space is seen as the first event in the experience of the library patron.

The Main Library is constructed with exterior materials selected for their durability and to reflect the timelessness needed for a public library. Exterior finishes include Roman-sized brick, limestone and copper trim, aluminum sash, column enclosure details and bracketing, cedar soffits and copper roofs – all detailed to provide an appropriate scale in keeping with the building’s neighbors.

The Branch Library is organized around a central space, which extends from the entry through to the central technology/information area. From the main public entrance, patrons move through the brick arched portico and traffic dispersal area. Once inside the library, users pass the circulation desk and arrive in the central two-story space with clerestory windows. All areas of the library are accessible to the public.