Chinatown Branch of the Boston Public Library

The Chinatown Branch of the Boston Public Library occupies two stories set aside at the base of a 12-story affordable housing development and is the culmination of decades of neighborhood advocacy to bring a full-fledged branch to Chinatown. The interior of the library is conceived as an extension of the dense and historic neighborhood’s public space and draws inspiration from the materials, colors, patterns and textures that defines the neighborhood’s public realm to reinforce the space as a destination that is free to all.
Upon entering the building, patrons arrive in the library commons. This unique intergenerational space welcomes people of all ages with furniture and programming designed to bring the community together. Natural Stone inlaid into the terrazzo floor references the pavers and step stones of the parks and plazas in the surrounding neighborhood. Pendant lighting draws inspiration from the lanterns which decorate the neighborhood’s outdoor spaces during special events.
Each program area (children’s, teens and adults) is defined by an individualized color palette to provide differentiation and identity throughout the space. The teen space and children’s space are located directly off of the library commons. These spaces contain multilingual collections and invite a broad range of activities from crafting to storytime, to computer based learning. A bright red staircase carries patrons up to the second floor of the library which houses the adult collections and reading areas as well as several community gathering spaces ranging from a four-person study room to a 100-person community room. These vibrant and welcoming public spaces provide the neighborhood residents a broad range of opportunities to connect and come together.