Fife Library
The new 6,000-square-foot Pierce County Library System branch in Fife is the city’s first library. An enthusiastic community visits the library to browse collections and participate in library and community programs. The innovative modular building is designed as a permanent, full-service library offering places for people to learn, study and connect.
A pedestrian entry and generous windows on the north elevation connect the library to activity on the sidewalk and street. Native plants, street trees and large seating rocks offer a welcoming spot to read or meet friends.
Fife Library
Organized for easy browsing, library collections are grouped in topic areas rather than by the traditional Dewey Decimal system. Over 1,500 items were checked out and 143 new library cards were issued on its opening day.
Fife Library
Clear span trusses provide open, flexible space to accommodate evolving library programs and resources. Sliding panels were custom designed to allow for flexible space division and after-hours access to large print books and an automated media dispenser.
Fife Library
Located near subject areas, intimate reading areas are defined by shelving and distributed throughout the flexible space. Children and teens have dedicated areas with age-specific furniture, books, media and computers.
Milton/Edgewood Library
Pierce County Library System's Milton Edgewood Library serves a small community hungry for an updated library: a community gathering place and a facility with all kinds of connectivity. The welcoming entry includes a rotating display of new collections, giving visitors a clear view into the library.
Milton/Edgewood Library
A self-service desk for easy check-out and digital catalogue provides quick access to library resources. A meeting room that seats 65, two conference rooms, and a study room provide additional resources. The fixture designs form a landscape of color and texture suited to the groups of adults, teens and children using the library. Sustainable building practices include low-flow toilets and faucets, and energy efficient lighting.
The reception area includes a desk for library staff to answer questions and facilitate patron access to collections. Comfortable chairs provide a cozy place to sit and read or visit with neighbors.
Milton/Edgewood Library
Teen patrons have a place of their own. A semi-circular seating area creates a comfortable nook for homework; three computers provide internet access. The custom-designed furniture adds a lyrical touch to the well-ordered space.
Milton/Edgewood Library
The children's area has kid-size shelving and a “book tunnel” that leads to the audio-visual section. Children have access to two computers with internet access and one AWE station – a children's learning computer. A small, “secret” door opens from the children’s area directly to the meeting room for special activities and story-time.