With a mission to ignite imagination, enrich lives, and foster community, the new Kennett Library offers 24,000 more square feet than its previous location, enhancing services for residents across the townships of Chester County, Pennsylvania.
Now a cornerstone of the downtown area, the Kennett Library is a modern facility thoughtfully designed to fit the community’s needs. With a combination of glass and stone, its exterior strikes a balance between modern aesthetics and a deep appreciation for the region’s historic architecture.
The “outside in” theme is immediately apparent, with a 4-sided SSG curtain wall system with minimal framing allowing natural light to flood the entrance and interior. Meeting rooms, reading stations, and creative play areas are strategically placed along the building’s perimeter to maximize daylight. On the second floor, a spacious outdoor terrace offers guests the opportunity to enjoy fresh air while taking advantage of the library’s many amenities. Structural elements in the children’s area, such as beams, are designed to reflect the lush, tree-filled landscape, while the curved ceiling with recessed lighting evokes the openness of the sky.
With nearly 20,000 shelved books and 80,000 virtual items, it serves as a vast resource for readers. The 110-seat auditorium transforms it into a theater, while the terrace and inviting meeting rooms create a welcoming gathering space. An audio/visual recording room provides a studio for young artists, and with a 3D printer, computers, and interactive activities, it functions as an accessible technology hub.
Shaped by input from the community on local design priorities and service needs, the Kennett Library stands as a shining example of how public spaces can be reimagined to better serve neighbors and friends.
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