This project’s challenge embodies a profound commitment to listening to its community. The existing neighborhood library, located just five miles from downtown Columbus, was in a leftover, rarely-used school building where community members did not feel safe going. Listening sessions were held during early design at the nearby community center to determine which programs were most important for the proposed 10,000 SF branch library. From these sessions, the team learned of the community’s unique pride, stemming from isolation caused by the intersections of railroad and highway infrastructure. As a result, the Marion-Franklin community, made up of a largely African American population who have lived in the area for decades, formed strong inter-generational bonds to support themselves. The team was awed by the elder generation’s desire to focus the library programming around the needs of the youth, rather than just what each elder wanted. This presented the team with a challenge to design a space that not only honored this communal pride but also fostered a sense of safety, belonging, and empowerment for all ages.

With mindful consideration of the historical divisions within the greater Columbus area, stemming from the development of railroads and highway infrastructure, the Marion Franklin Branch strives to encapsulate the vibrant community essence of its multi-generational locale. The community elder’s notion of building for the future also influenced the environmental response of the library.

Positioned near various local landmarks such as the community recreation center, swimming pool, and high school, the library integrates itself into the fabric of this network through organized views. Openings were designed for optimal solar orientation. A central skylight illuminates the shared interior space and offsets Ohio’s traditionally gray skies. As a result, little to no artificial light is needed within spaces where readers can immerse themselves in the warmth and comfort of natural light. A sawtooth facade along the west elevation angles library patron views to the northwest toward the nearby park and reflects movement along the active street. Open expression of the library’s activities through these portals is meant to reach out to welcome new visitors. A retention pond to the north of the site offers not only picturesque views from the kid’s and teen’s areas, but also benefits local fauna and flora.

The building’s exterior expression and exposed interior structure reflect the industrial surroundings, while the interior features wood insertions for warmth and a sense of home. In a playful homage to the children’s classic, Harold and the Purple Crayon, purple is used as a unifying accent color to symbolize wisdom, independence, and creativity.