Looks & Books at the New Library

One tour of the new Main Branch library in Baton Rouge has turned us into rabid fans

It should come as no surprise that librarians do their research. But the new Main Branch of the East Baton Rouge Parish Public Libraries still stands, at three stories, as a testament to the benefits of thorough planning and diligent work.

Located on Goodwood Boulevard, mere yards from the old library, the branch is just the latest installment of the Capital Improvements Program, made possible by a dedicated library tax, as well as keen saving. Well before its January 14 soft opening, the new library was completely paid for.

While permanent parking and landscaping are still in progress—including a plaza that links the library with a new BREC café—the Main Branch already boasts fashionable furnishings, books in ample supply, expanded computer areas, and a wealth of natural lighting. “Research shows that when you use natural light, people feel better and stay longer,” said Assistant Library Director Mary Stein.

General contractor Milton J. Womack worked alongside local architects Tipton & Associates and Cockfield/Jackson, as well as Dewberry, a national firm specializing in the look and functionality of libraries.

Throughout the building process, Stein and company worked to integrate the construction crew with the day-to-day of the library. "We told them from the beginning that this would be a high-profile project. We wanted it to be their library too." The architects would stop by storytime for "Construction Junction." Kids got to see the action first-hand. And as a fun aside on the library's website, Stein uploaded a playlist of construction-related songs.

The design aims, with great precision, toward sustainability. “It’s just smart business,” said Stein. To name a few “green” examples: rooftop cisterns collect water, light pollution is controlled by plots of indigenous agave, the construction crew sought out local or secondhand materials, and the modern artwork adorning the walls uses recycled paper. The cool north side of the library is reserved for patrons, while the staff takes up residence in the warmer south side.

And while all the rooms have been assigned (vibrant child and teen spaces honed by youth focus groups, quiet reading rooms with cozy chairs, a career center, large meeting rooms open to the public, genealogy resources, and more), flexibility remains. Power and data are channeled throughout the building, ensuring that every nook and cranny of the exciting new space will be put to good use.

The grand opening will take place in spring, if Louisiana weather plays nice. “If it rains, it can only rain late on Friday nights,” laughed Stein.

In the meantime, the new library is sure to impress. “I’m proud,” said Stein. “I’m happy. I have no regrets.”

While you're there:

• Cozy up in the quiet reading room, whiling away the afternoon with a good book as ample sunlight streams through the window.

• Sit on one of the heat-activated benches located outside the "Teen Scene."

• Try out the futuristic chairs in the teen room, made to mold to your form. "We want it to be as cool as going to the Apple Store," said Stein.

• Bring your youngsters to the Children's Room, where Spiderman walks the bookshelves and colorful lights stream through the ceiling.

• Enjoy the new one-stop shop for research on the second floor, where the genealogy center, vertical reference files, microfilm, and more are found.

• Check out a new book! And plan your return trip.

East Baton Rouge Parish Library, Main Branch at 7711 Goodwood Boulevard. (225) 231-3700. ebrpl.com.