Bishop Arts Branch Library

The Bishop Arts Branch Library will be a LEED
Gold library that will replace the existing North
Oak Cliff Branch Library. It is sited around a large
existing tree while still addressing the urban street
presence of the evolving community. Parking is
relocated on the back half of the lot opening up
an area for a small community park. The new
library embraces its role as a community center
and collaborative work environment. The central
library hall, with its high ceilings, low stacks,
extensive work tables and seating promotes
interaction and takes advantage of large north
facing curtainwalls for daylighting. The library
collection is primarily housed along a long low
slope ramp that leads patrons up to a large mezzanine
that looks out over the central hall and the
tree filled entrance courtyard. The integration of
an artist studio, gallery spaces and a street café
strengthen the link between the library and the
surrounding Bishop Arts neighborhood.