Hartford City Public Library

Hartford City, Indiana

To further connect patrons to this community hub, Hartford City Public Library worked to update and extend the gathering spaces, creating opportunities to engage with one another. The library worked with the design team to create an inviting neighborhood entrance to the east side of the building, which leads to the children’s area. A previous addition was done in the 1980’s which increased square footage and accessibility with an elevator, but structural and aesthetic issues were prohibitive. To ensure the addition looked cohesive, the project team worked to match the original brickwork, honoring the established structure. The new entrance provides a connection to the adjacent park and large play structure.

Additionally, renovations were made to the existing interiors to create a refreshed look throughout. At the main west side entrance, the decommissioned circulation desk was refinished, and a new top was added, restoring it back to its former charm. The desk was then relocated back to its original place near the main entrance. A new reading lounge was added upstairs to provide a space for patrons to relax or gather.