Designed with identical floor plans to serve as a prototype facility for adaptation throughout the Live Oak Public Library System, the new Garden City and Islands Libraries have quickly filled a need in their respective communities. The vision was to develop a library that from the exterior expressed the happenings within while also presenting each facility as a destination or anchor for its unique Savannah neighborhood. The end result is a design that could be suitable in an urban environment or on a more open site in a suburban or rural setting.

 

The design vision for the libraries’ interior focused on developing a facility that could adapt to the rapidly changing library system, as well as be efficient in energy use and in operation man hours.  The buildings feature open floor plans that maximize views and incorporate generous amounts of natural light. The interior spaces are defined more by movable stacks and furnishings than by walls, making the space almost instantly convertible for whatever change is around the corner.  The design intent was to establish a retail-like feeling with ample shelving that invites customers to stay and browse.

 

The designated children’s areas are designed with bright colors and bold patterns to stimulate children’s interest in libraries. Specific areas include themed reading areas, a storytime room with space for more than 100 children and a dedicated arts and crafts activity space.

Both facilities are designed to LEED Silver standards and include energy saving lighting options, high ceilings with abundant natural light, and are fully landscaped with native plantings for ease of maintenance. The exterior includes deep overhanging canopies with louvres to help reduce solar infiltration.