City libraries are an embodiment of the spirit of higher learning that governments are supposed to be all about, and nowhere is that more true than Calgary’s about-to-be-built Central Library.
The mockups show a towering glass library that’s loosely inspired by the foothills that surround Calgary, giving it a sense of wilderness often lacking from public buildings. The terraced feel of the building also gives it scope to pass over the light rail transit line that runs across the site (just another disadvantage of building in an already-busy area.
In terms of layout, the lower few decks are planned for serious research, while the upper decks are designed to secure the goodwill of students- serious study area, within striking distance from most student residences. [Archdaily]