“Residents wanted a place for collaboration, innovation, and community engagement,” says Wichita Public Library’s Sean Jones. The library delivers all that and more, and is key to the city’s revitalization. Sited at the Arkansas River, it activates a once-abandoned industrial lot. Curved glass walls framed by precast concrete and embedded with sparkling mica connect the landscape. Public art anchors greenspace, inviting visitors to learn about native foliage and engage in STEAM learning. Silva Cells below the plaza manage stormwater and promote tree growth. A multi-screen digital wall with interactive maps and close-captioned video greets visitors. Communal wheelchairs are available. High-density storage opens up dedicated programming space. Acoustical ceiling cloud systems, garage doors, and frameless glass door systems support flexible and visible experiences during and after library hours. With more than 25 collaboration spaces and themed pavilions, the library serves many unique needs. Photo by Craig Hacker

VITALS

ARCHITECT GLMV Architecture

CATEGORY New Build

COST $37,000,000

SIZE 105,200 square feet

DATE 2016

AWARDS 2019 Wichita Business Journal Project of the Year, Real Estate Awards