Project Spotlight:
Lincoln Branch
Rochester Public Library

The Lincoln Branch is the largest branch and one of the most beloved libraries in the City of Rochester. It is located in a high-need residential neighborhood with large youth and transient populations. However, the building was in need of repairs and the interior layout made it difficult to meet the community’s needs.

Construction is currently underway to make the library function better for the community it serves. Design considerations for the renovation included:

 

  • Improved building layout and programmatic uses.

  • Dedicated spaces for children, teen, and adult areas, including acoustical separation and small meeting areas within each space.

  • Improved adjacencies, especially with the children’s area and toy library.

  • A new family restroom connected to children’s area.

  • Relocated circulation desk to improve sight lines, traffic flow, and security.

  • Neighborhood support center with sight lines from the circulation desk. The Center includes computer and printer access (to find and print business forms, get tax help, etc).

  • Separate staff lounge

  • Overall improved interior environment with new windows to let in light, paint to brighten up spaces and new energy-efficient lighting.

  • Redesigned entry/storefront to be more inviting and create a better connection to the neighborhood.

  • Find opportunities to infuse community pride in the design (e.g. new outdoor mural)

 

Check out the pictures and renderings below to see what the future holds for the library renovation. We look forward to visiting it upon completion and hearing the neighborhood’s response.

 

ENTRY

The existing entry was not inviting and the library signage was hard to read from the street.

BEFORE

A more inviting canopy was added to the exterior. Larger, impact-resistant, storefront windows will provide more visibility to the interior of the library. New signage will make the library easier to find.

Front hardscaping can easily be converted from parking to outdoor event space, creating a connection between the indoors and outdoors.

 

CIRCULATION DESK

The circulation desk will be in a centralized location improving:

  • line of sight to all areas of the library

  • connection and accessibility to all patrons

  • traffic flow throughout the library

  • overall security

A book drop-off was added to the front of the library for after-hours returns.

BEFORE

 

CHILDREN’S AREA

Dark ceilings made the space feel small and dark. The children’s area and toy library were located on opposite sides of the library.

BEFORE

The new children’s area will be more open and inviting with bright walls and ceilings, and new lighting. It will be located adjacent to the toy library with clear visual connections to both spaces.

 

Read more about the importance of libraries in our communities and schools here: