Great Neck Public Library Undergoes Complete Renovation to Main Branch Facility

KG+D Architects recently collaborated with The Great Neck Public Library in Great Neck, NY on a complete renovation and update of the main branch facility. The project was generally completed within the footprint of the existing building and turned the space into a flexible 21st Century Library.

The project involved converting space for books into areas for patrons, including meeting spaces and reading areas. The space previously allocated for volumes was consolidated by prioritizing the collection and utilizing remote or high-density shelving, while the audiovisual collection was relocated to the more accessible main floor. The renovation also included creating a more open, user friendly and inviting environment throughout the library, and utilizing views of Udall Pond from the interior. As a result, a new entrance sequence draws visitors into the Library and provides customer service points along a new diagonal pathway and allows for views of Udall Pond. The main features of this new entrance sequence are a new light well and stairs to the lower level.

A larger and more accessible Community Room was relocated to the main level and the new Children’s Area was relocated to the lower level. It has a dedicated entrance from the parking area, access to outdoor space, its own circulation desk and a variety of spaces to accommodate a range of separate children’s programs. An open gallery space adjacent to the Children’s Area was created for more space, flexible uses and simplified circulation.

Overall, the connections between levels of the building areas that are used by the public were improved, staff and technical service areas were consolidated to be less accessible to the public and the entire building infrastructure was updated to be more energy efficient.

The completed project created a more user friendly and open library building that provides space for patrons to gather, read and collaborate.