Reading Room: New and Reimagined Libraries of the American West

Reading Room: New and Reimagined Libraries of the American West documents a new generation of regional libraries that are redefining public space in the 21st century. With extensive photography and insightful narratives, the book examines the library’s place and function in cities and rural communities alike.

It makes a case for the urgent need for these buildings, which serve as part of a vital community in the post-pandemic digital age. Bold and breathtaking photography by award-winning architectural photographer Lara Swimmer, is accompanied with writing by former Architectural Record critic Laura Raskin, and a forward by past Seattle City Librarian Marcellus Turner.

Reading Room features 25 significant new and renovated libraries designed by a slate of nationally recognized architects representing the American South (Austin, Louisville, McAllen), Midwest (Madison, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Tulsa) and West (Billings, Juneau, Los Angeles, Missoula, Newport, Phoenix, Portland, Seattle), and will appeal to anyone who
loves books and architecture.