%201.avif){kind=logo}
Sunlight and community life gather under a single sweeping roof at this rural branch library and community hub in historic Cookstown.
Set on the former village fairgrounds, the 10,000 sq. ft. facility is organized as a series of flexible spaces sheltered beneath a continuous roof monitor that washes the interior with controlled natural light. Inside, an open-concept plan supports a proactive customer service model: clear sightlines, wide aisles, intuitive wayfinding and a mix of quiet nooks and social zones make it easy for every visitor to feel welcome and oriented.
A shared lobby forms the heart of the building, linking the main library floor with a 2,000 sq. ft. community meeting and recreation suite. Folding partitions allow these rooms to expand, subdivide or open into the lobby for author talks, makerspace workshops, children’s programs or evening community events, supporting multiple uses at different hours without additional staff or operating costs.
Comfort is a deliberate design feature: a fireplace lounge invites longer visits, community art animates the walls and generous glazing connects reading areas to surrounding green space. Outdoor gathering areas and multi-season programming extend activity beyond the building envelope, reinforcing the branch as a year-round focal point for the village.
High-performance systems and carefully selected materials contribute to the project’s LEED Silver certification, reflecting a long-term commitment to environmental stewardship and operating efficiency. Together, these elements create a bright, adaptable library that serves as both a neighbourhood living room and a catalyst for future community growth.
In association with sza Shoalts and Zaback Architects, the collaborative project team blended local village insight with contemporary library design expertise to create a community hub that feels both familiar and forward-looking.
