Each April, National Library Week invites us to celebrate the role libraries play in strengthening our communities. As architects who design these essential public spaces, we’re reminded not only of their value as repositories of knowledge—but also of their power to connect people, foster equity, and evolve alongside the communities they serve.
Libraries are among the most democratic spaces we design. They are free, open, and welcoming to all—regardless of age, background, or income. Whether it’s a student looking for a quiet place to study, a parent attending a storytime with their child, or a job-seeker using a computer to submit applications, libraries offer more than just books. They offer opportunity.
As designers, we have the privilege and responsibility of shaping the environments where those opportunities happen. We consider how a building invites people in, how spaces flow, how natural light nurtures focus and calm, and how flexibility allows for changing needs over time. A well-designed library isn’t just functional—it’s inspiring.
Some of our most rewarding work has involved collaborating with librarians, city leaders, and community members to create spaces that reflect local identity and respond to real needs. From teen zones and makerspaces to quiet reading rooms and community meeting areas, every library tells a story about the people it serves.
This National Library Week, we’re celebrating the incredible librarians, staff, and patrons who bring these buildings to life. We’re grateful for the chance to contribute, in our own way, to the next generation of libraries—spaces that bring us together, support lifelong learning, and remind us that knowledge should be shared, not siloed.
Libraries matter. And the spaces that hold them do, too.