The ALA (American Library Association) selected the Stoughton Public Library in Stoughton, MA as one of thirteen libraries nationwide in 2019 to be featured in American Libraries’ annual celebration of new and renovated libraries! The ALA selected these libraries as “shining examples of innovative architectural feats” that “address user needs in unique, interesting, and effective ways.” All thirteen libraries are featured in the Library Design Showcase of the Sept/Oct 2019 issue of the American Libraries Magazine.
The ALA is a nonprofit organization based in the United States that promotes libraries and library education internationally. It is the oldest and largest library association in the world, with more than 57,000 members. Each year the ALA announces that year's most impressive new and renovated libraries across the US.
Pages 32-33 of the Library Design Showcase section of American Libraries Magazine, Sep/Oct 2019 issue featuring Stoughton Public Library
Cover of the American Libraries Magazine, Sept/Oct 2019 issue
I had the pleasure of photographing this beautiful library for Finegold Alexander Architects, who designed and completed the renovation and expansion of this $14 million project in the fall of 2018. The new design economically reused the original 22,000 sq. ft. mid-century modern structure and foundation built in 1969 and expanded it to an energy efficient, universally accessible, inviting and modern library facility of 31,000 sq. ft.. The redesign expanded the second floor to create an addition that extends over the front façade. The clerestory windows and roof were kept in the redesign and the atrium was expanded, allowing for additional daylight into both the enlarged adult collection and the entry gallery.
Expanded second floor and adult section
New rear entrance and a view into the expanded second floor
The new circulation desk and seating area in the main lobby
Views of new atrium and lobby
Glimpses of the old library interiors before the redesign
New section of the library for teens and young adults next to the main entrance and atrium
New kids section
Exterior showing the expanded second floor that extends over the front facade
Exterior view of the front and main entrance from the street
The interiors of the Library were designed by Stefura Associates. New landscaping, signage and walkways were added and the building is now universally accessible along with parking capacity for 20 additional spaces. Below are few images of the interior and exterior at dusk taken in Dec 2018 around the time of the Library opening.
