The Ferndale Public Library combines emergent ideas about 21st century libraries with long-standing traditions of community gathering. Developed in collaboration with community members, City, and Library staff, the 15,000-square-foot library affirms the continuing relevance of libraries in rural communities.
“We are thrilled! It’s a beautiful building. I can’t say enough for how well-designed I think the building is and how much the community is going to benefit from it. It really belongs to this community in every sense."
— Norine Amend, President of the nonproft Friends of the Ferndale Public Library
The environmentally responsive design optimizes daylight through strategically designed window and skylight openings. Four large, south-facing roof monitors provide natural light and ventilation through large venting windows. Western Red Cedar siding and the simple form draw on the material and spatial character of the simple agricultural buildings of the Nooksack River Valley. The Library achieved Ferndale's "Eagle" requirements, equivalent to LEED Silver.
Along the south wall, the vast, neighboring Schell Marsh provides a tranquil setting to enjoy a new book or a quiet moment with Mount Baker framed as a backdrop.
“It’s got this beautiful, peaceful feeling to it.”
— Christine Perkins, executive director of the Whatcom County Library System
