The new library is a distinctive landmark in the community

The Highlands Branch Library in Edmonton, Alberta, provides the community with a distinctive landmark that underlines a new open and accessible library. The library is designed as a composition of pitched roofs, with a modern expression implementing large windows and a metallic facade. The building sits like an open pavilion in a garden and expresses that it is open to all; a free public space, a place to read, a place to learn, a place to meet, a place to be.

The building’s transparency and openness contributes to its social hub function, which is essential for a modern library.

The new library is organised as one large space spread into three wings – focusing on children, teens and adult collections. Librarians are located in the centre to be easily available and visible to all library visitors.