Four Lovely Libraries

The annual AIA/ALA Library Building Award is billed as "the only award that recognizes entire library structures and all aspects of their design," with the jury* comprised of an equal number of architects and librarians. This year's four winners are presented below in alphabetical order by project name, with quotes from the jury comments. A notable fact is that two of the winners are two of three co-located housing and library developments built in Chicago last year. 

Jury comments: "This is a beautiful project with 'no back' — all sides are thoughtful and responsive. The client and programming needs seem to have been met if not exceeded. ... The commitment to heavy timber for structural purposes was clearly embraced as an opportunity to create a unique civic structure in a prominent location downtown. The way the building responds to its surroundings, orientation, and programming has resulted in an elegant, restrained, thoughtful, intricate yet refined, warm, welcoming building that is 'of its time' and is like no other civic building on this scale I have ever experienced."

Jury comments: "By acknowledging the ravine, the library provides visitors and staff with a place of reverence for knowledge and nature while creating a tranquil edge to its community. "

Jury comments: "Wonderful mix of materials....Concrete structure uses materials (cement, stone aggregate, sand, water) local to the site."

Jury comments: "Combines affordable senior housing and was incorporated as a 'connection' and not a separation. ... At 71% energy use reduction, the project exceeded its goal and meets the AIA’s 2030 Commitment."

• Jennifer Yoos (Chair), VJAA, Minneapolis, MN
• Ann Beha, Ann Beha Architects,  Boston, MA
• Erin Sterling Lewis, in situ studio, Raleigh, North Carolina
• Kimberly Johnson, Tulsa City-County Library, Tulsa, Oklahoma
• Clint S. Rudy, Suffolk Public Library, Suffolk, Virginia
• Gail Scanlon, Philips Exeter Academy, Exeter, New Hampshire