Tuesday, March 30, 2010

In Plain Sight | St. Anthony Park Library

Three Carnegie libraries opened in St. Paul in 1917 – Riverview, Arlington Hills, and St. Anthony Park – and all three were designed by the St. Paul City Architect's office. While they're almost identical, it's the St. Anthony Park branch which gets a clear geographical advantage. Located at the triangular intersection of Como and Carter Avenues, the stately facade is given a proper vantage point and park-like space from which it can be appreciated.

Furthermore, the library's proximity to local schools, universities, and housing make it the system's 5th busiest. In 2000, architect Phillip Broussard designed the addition of a children's reading room in the shape of a rotunda--perfectly complementing the classic geometry of this neighborhood gem.

2 comments:

Donald Rowe, AIA said...

This library, it should be noted, is also situated in a thriving, two-block long, commercial node that adds liveliness and urban context. Local residents have always been proud and supportive of their little "village-within-a-city" setting. It is a unique aspect of this neighborhood. So when it came time to expand the library, this community got the quality design it sought and deserved.

Unknown said...

That library is the most striking Carnegie Library I've ever scene...usually the urban situation is expected, but that building is perched at the apex of a small hill with the roadway twisting ever so carefully around it. I must own that photo... bravo Brandon!