The Haverhill Public Library commissioned West Work and OverUnder to design a “Library for the Future” that is patron-focused and sustainable. Involving more than 1,000 members of the community through interviews, public meetings, surveys, focus groups, and events, the design team developed several key project goals: provide improved access and human comfort, optimize library functions, address deferred maintenance with sustainable low-carbon solutions, and improve the building’s urban presence to inspire community engagement.
The renovation replaces the building envelope, improves energy performance, and enlarges windows to connect interior spaces to street life in what was is currently a fortress-like setting. Landscape upgrades make the site more welcoming to all, including ADA access, addressing waterproofing and stormwater drainage, and providing reading gardens. The building is already electrified with its primary HVAC through an open-loop geothermal system. The system will be supplemented with air-to-air heat pumps.