The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the American Library Association (ALA) have selected eight projects as recipients of the 2017 AIA/ALA Library Building Awards. Founded to ?encourage and recognize excellence in the architectural design of libraries,? the award draws attention to the changing role of libraries in society, and how exemplary community spaces can change to reflect the needs of their surrounding residents.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the American Library Association (ALA) have selected eight projects as recipients of the 2017 AIA/ALA Library Building Awards. Founded to ?encourage and recognize excellence in the architectural design of libraries,? the award draws attention to the changing role of libraries in society, and how exemplary community spaces can change to reflect the needs of their surrounding residents.The eight winners of the 2017 AIA/ALA Library Building Awards are:Boston Public Library, Central Library Renovation / William Rawn Associates
Boston Public Library, Central Library Renovation / William Rawn Associates. Image © Bruce T. Martin

The renovation of this 156,000-square-foot civic monument provides immersive and engaging learning experiences for patrons inside as well as pedestrians who pass by. Originally constructed in 1895, this renovation has dramatically transformed a wing of the library from a solid stone bunker to an inviting light-filled space that spills out into a newly de...