Bellevue, Tennessee experienced a galvanizing event through the devastating Flood of 2010. Building on this revitalized sense of community, a new library was slated for the area with the commitment to enrich lives on a local level. The new Bellevue Branch Library will be a critical component and, in many regards, the heart of the community. As a center for knowledge and entertainment, this library will foster inspiration, wonder, escape, sharing, collaboration and critical thinking.
Hosting large formal events and small impromptu encounters, this facility will generate unique public and personal experiences while celebrating the benevolence found in Bellevue.
Recognizing the importance of this project, the following key components were critical to the design of the new Library:
• Context – bring to life a central and conveniently located property by creating a new walking trail, outdoor gathering areas for teaching and contemplation and a community “front porch” for large events or small private getaway moments
• Identity - create a facility that not only develops a direct physical and visual connection to the street and surrounding neighborhood but will also become a unique landmark generating community pride
• Layout - establish a well-developed plan with intuitive circulation, centrally positioned and highly visible service desk and multiple environments for a wide variety of users
• Technology – incorporate state-of-the-art technology while forecasting future trends and building in flexible systems for multi-use functions
• Sustainability - recognize the benefits of sustainable design practices by infusing the project with thoughtful solutions throughout