BSC has designed the renovation of the Queens Woodhaven Branch Library, a project awarded under the DDC’s Design Excellence Program. One of the last Carnegie libraries to be built in the United States, the building underwent a renovation in the 1960s which degraded the original brick facades, erased many important historic features of the interior spaces, and introduced dropped ceilings to accommodate air conditioning. Our design will restore the grand reading room, historic windows, and original architectural features of the historic building lost in previous alterations.

The original entry stair has been redesigned to meet current code requirements using materials complementary to the historic structure. A new ADA ramp adjacent to the new stair creates a fully accessible main entry. A second ADA ramp leading to the lower level gives access to a community multi-purpose room after library hours.

The renovated scheme adds over 1,000 sq. ft. of program space by removing existing mechanical equipment in the basement and replacing it with more efficient rooftop-mounted equipment. The additional space allows for the creation of distinct program areas, a new elevator and stair, ADA accessible restrooms, and state-of-the-art mechanical, IT and AV, and lighting systems. The new library will be energy-efficient and technologically current, designed to achieve LEED Gold status.

Designing for the future of an historic library requires designing with both an eye to the future and a deep consideration for the past. The renovation will celebrate the cultural value of the library’s history, while creating a modern-day library serving the evolving needs of its local community.