Reading Room: New and Reimagined Libraries of the American West

Reading Room: New and Reimagined Libraries of the
American West documents a new generation of regional
libraries that are redefining public space in the 21st
century. With extensive photography and insightful
narratives, the book examines the library’s place and function in cities and rural communities alike.

It makes a case for the urgent need for these buildings,
which serve as part of a vital community in the post-
pandemic digital age. Bold and breathtaking
photography by award-winning architectural photographer
Lara Swimmer, is accompanied with writing by former
Architectural Record critic Laura Raskin, and a forward
by past Seattle City Librarian Marcellus Turner.

Reading Room features 25 significant new and renovated
libraries designed by a slate of nationally
recognized architects representing the
American South (Austin, Louisville, McAllen), Midwest
(Madison, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Tulsa) and West (Billings,
Juneau, Los Angeles, Missoula, Newport, Phoenix,
Portland, Seattle), and will appeal to anyone who
loves books and architecture.

January 31st;

Book Talk & Slide show at Seattle Central Library
1000 4th Avenue, Seattle 98104