2009: Seattle Central Library

Over the past five years, local Seattleites and visitors from around the world have come to visit this extraordinary space where architecture meets academia. Some have been drawn to the culture that it offers, others for conversation and a cup of coffee, and some simply seek an interesting read. No matter the mission, as one approaches this geometric wonder, it is clear this is no ordinary library.

A fascinating mix of glass, steel, concrete and aluminum, this main branch of the city’s public library system boasts nearly 10,000 pieces of glass on the outside while, inside, an array of vibrant colors greets each visitor. Designed by architects Rem Koolhaas of the Netherlands and colleague Joshua Ramus, a former resident of Seattle, the building was created in collaboration with local firm LMN Architects. Constructed with the elements of Mother Nature in mind, its diagonal grid system helps to withstand high winds and earthquakes, while a mesh of aluminum sheet metal between layers of glass reduces the sun’s glare, ensuring a cool and comfortable experience within.

This newest rendition of the Central Library opened on May 23rd, 2004, as the third and most ambitious version to be constructed on the site. The library welcomes between 5,000 and 8,000 visitors per day, nearly double the average from the previous building. While that number might generate a waiting line out the door of most libraries, the impressive 363,000 square foot structure provides plenty of space to freely explore its eleven stories in height and over a million stories waiting to be read. As part of its unique organization, the library contains an uninterrupted “Books Spiral” of non-fiction works that wraps around a continuous four-story coil of shelving. Technology is ever present with a multitude of public computers in the mixing chamber, wireless Internet throughout the building and sustainable “green” systems that decrease energy consumption. There are even machines that can check in and sort the books! A children’s room houses a wide range of storybooks and computers for young researchers.

Much like the books inside that have the power to take their readers to other worlds, the Seattle Central Library is a fitting gateway to our past, present and future. It continues to reflect light on its namesake city, embracing with open arms all who may enter its doors. As you add this special ornament to your collection, may it serve as a reminder of the importance of taking time to sit back and enjoy a good book, whether in this, the beautiful city of Seattle, or in lands far away…

-Chris Harris, Writer (2009)