Queens Central Library Children’s Library Discovery Center
The Children’s Library Discovery Center (CLDC) is a 2-story addition to the Queens Central Library housing the children’s collection and creating space for interactive science exhibits that offer visitors an engaging, hands-on learning experience. The contemporary glass façade increases the building’s visibility in the community and creates a dialogue with the street, positioning the library as a vibrant social and cultural destination. Inside, independent reading space, media stations, collaboration zones, and lounge areas are arrayed in an open plan, creating a rich and cohesive user experience. Quiet reading nooks and informal social spaces incorporated into the perimeter wall further enhance the connection between the building and its context. The LEED-Gold-Certified addition features several sustainability measures, including radiant floor heating, ample daylighting, and high-performance insulated glazing.
Awards
The New York Library Association Public Libraries Section Building Award – Population Serving Over 20,000, 2013
The Municipal Art Society of New York, MASterworks Award: Best Neighborhood Catalyst, 2012
ALA/IIDA Library Interior Design Awards – Best of Competition Winner, 2014
ALA/IIDA Library Interior Design Awards – Best Public Library 30,000 SQ.FT & Smaller, 2014
SARA NY 2015 Design Awards – Silver Award of Honor, 2015
Publications
We Build The City. Michael R. Bloomberg, Foreword. New York: Oro Editions, 2014.
Dunlap, David W. “Queens Central Library Opens Wider.” The New York Times, March 18, 2013.
“Children’s Library Discovery Center.” bob: International Magazine of Space Design, October 2012.
Kristal, Marc. “Happy Discovery.” Metropolis, April 2012.
Barclay, Donald A. and Eric D. Scott. “Directions to Library Wayfinding.” American Libraries, March / April 2012.
“Chamber to Honor Building Awards Winners at Reception.” Queensborough, January 2012.
Magill, Lee. “Ten Best Libraries.” Time Out New York Kids, August 2011.
Hill, John. Guide to Contemporary New York City Architecture. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2011.
LOCATION: QUEENS, NY
COMPLETED: 2011
LEED GOLD CERTIFIED
PHOTOGRAPHY © MICHAEL MORAN