Following an extensive renovation and expansion, this once worn, 45-year-old building now feels entirely new. The library has been completely transformed to adapt gracefully over time, provide a user-centric environment that addresses both customer and staff needs, and offer a community destination that enhances Madison’s cultural offerings. A huge success, the transformed library has become a popular and vibrant community amenity that has spurred urban redevelopment. Since its reopening in September 2013, the third floor spaces have been continuously booked for everything from art openings and concerts to fundraisers and weddings, and new businesses have opened on adjacent blocks, further increasing the vitality of a part of the city that was previously struggling.
ALA/IIDA Library Interior Design Award for Best of Public Libraries Over 30,000 sf
Library Journal New Landmark Library
IIDA Northland Chapter FAB Award for Excellence in Sustainability
American Public Works Association Project of the Year (National and Wisconsin Chapters)
Client
Madison Public Library
Location
Madison, WI
Project Type
Library | Educational Environment | Cultural Space | Government Facility
Size
120,000 SF
Certifications
Certified LEED-NC v.3 Gold
Roles
MSR Design | Lead Architect
MSR Design | Interior Designer
Potter Lawson | Associate Architect
Status
Complete
“A renovation and addition have dramatically transformed the library to coincide well with the city that it serves. . . . It's the community's new soul.”
—John Czarnecki | Contract Magazine
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