Project

Mid-century Library Reimagined

A much loved community library is reborn with a new spirit of openness

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Stoughton Public Library

City of Stoughton
Stoughton, Massachusetts

Stoughton Public Library opened its doors in 1969, but by the mid-2000s it needed expansion and new systems to support the community’s needs. Finegold Alexander’s design doubled the scale of the library, creating a universally accessible, outward facing facility. The design celebrates and extends the distinctive trussed roof monitor and stairway of the original 1969 library, while taking a sustainable approach to energy-efficient systems, building materials, and finishes.

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(Photo credit: Raj Das Photography)

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Size
26,000 SF
Scope
Renovation, Addition
Program
Seated Auditorium, Support Spaces, Music Room, Common Room
Sustainability
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Project EUI
The front of Stoughton Public Library, viewed from across the street at night.
Angled view of the exterior of the Stoughton Public Library at dust, with the overhand and accessible walkway, lit in bright yellow light.
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“The building is wildly successful, and our patronage has significantly increased since our opening day. The building is now a beacon looking out to our historic town green and is setting the tone for future progress in the Town.”
Pat Basler, Library Director, Stoughton Public Library

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Symmetrical glass and wood stairs leading up to the second floor under an opened truss system to let in abundant natural light.
Library patrons in comfortable chairs in a bright, naturally lit space with green and teal colors, overlooking the floor below.
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The project was a renovation and addition and as such, the team was able to save half of the original reinforced concrete and masonry structure. The renovation provides an entirely new experience inside and out, while keeping the soul of the original building.

Children in low green chairs around an orange table on a bright blue, teal carpet.
Library patrons walking towards the circulation desk, with a young girl reading a book on a gray, semicircle bench.
View from the entrance of the double-height atrium with trusses above and a winding, snake-like seat, with two people on the second level looking down.
Children playing with toys on a green, blue, and teal carpet with green chairs and orange tables in the background.
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"It's like welcoming a friend that's been missing."
Erin Gomes, Stoughton resident

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