January 2001

Volume 3 Number 1

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Connecticut Public Libraries - New, Expanded or Renovated

Harry Bennett Branch Library (Stamford)

Mary Louise Jensen, Building Consultant

Looking at the adult's bookstacks

On January 20th, 2000, the new Harry Bennett Branch Library at Turn of River (Stamford) was dedicated. Harry Bennett Branch, a branch of the Ferguson Library, is located next to the Turn of River Middle School in a residential area that serves a population of approximately 29,858. The total cost of the project was $4,633,054, and was partially funded with a $350,000 State Public Library Construction Grant.

One of the few modern style library buildings built in Connecticut, this 23,000 square foot one-story building has multi-levels that are connected by stairs and ramps. Some interesting features are the exposed steel ceilings, the use of glass, curved interior and exterior walls, and the use of neutral colors with some accent colors. There is an open, bright feeling created by many windows, a skylight, and glass walls for the conference and meeting rooms. The square design lighting fixtures are unique.

Some additional interesting elements are listed below:

• a long ramp and a short bright blue wall separate the children's and adult's areas.

• compact storage in the staff area.
• a garage for the bookmobile
• an underground drainage system that encompasses the structure to direct the rainwater away from the building instead of using gutters.

If you are interested in more information, go to the Ferguson Library website. 

Come see this library at the Libratects meeting on Thursday, April 12, 2001 at 10 a.m. People involved in the design and construction of the library will be available to answer questions.

A glassed-in conference room

Looking up the stairs to the main entrance

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