West Hartford Public Library

West Hartford, CT

The West Hartford Public Library underwent a major renovation and expansion as part of the Blue Back Square Project completed in 2008.  The entrance of the library which previously faced the parking area was completely redesigned to be part of Webster Square, the main plaza in Blue Back Square.  The conceptual sketch of the new entrance shows the library in relation to the retail shops, restaurants, bookstores and theater that now surround the area.

The Children's library, that is now approximately 10,000 sf, has tripled the size of the original space.  Paint colors, carpet patterns and various types of light fixtures are all design elements used to define circulation routes through the Children's Library.  A separate area for preschoolers which features a puppet theater and "pick-up-sticks" lighting  is beyond the blue meandering carpet

The existing 40,000 sf library was the combination of the original 1938 building and a 1962 addition that was modified again in 1980.  The latest project renovated all of this space and added another 20,000 sf with 2 separate additions on opposite sides of the 1962 building.   The library entrance from South Main Street remained in the same location, however, was upgrade with new automatic doors and a canopy for weather protection.  The Blue Back Square Project refurbished a marble statue of Noah Webster who now stands in a seating area at the front of the library.

The Main Floor has a 2 story atrium space in the center of the building which is surrounded by a mezzanine containing book stacks and quiet reading areas.   The interior spaces were completely redesigned and staff work areas relocated to other floors to maximize public use of the main floors.  The combination of new windows, interior finishes and upgraded lighting systems have all contributed to a bright and inviting facility in the center of West Hartford.      

Windows have been added wherever possible to bring in natural light and allow patrons to view the many activities which occur around the library on a daily basis.  Reading areas of varying sizes and configurations have been created throughout the library for patron use.  Cork flooring has been used in some of the more active areas for it durability and sound absorption qualities.