North Bend Public Library

North Bend, NE | November 2015
7,100 sq. ft.

Built in 1913, the North Bend Public Library had been serving its community for close to 100 years. In addition, the structure was listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings due to its status as a Carnegie Library. In 2007, the Library Board hired Carlson West Povondra to complete a facility analysis and explore options for new construction and renovation.

Upon completion of the study, the Library Board found the most fiscally responsible route for the community was to build a new facility. Working closely with the librarians and Friends of the Library task force, a new 7,100 square foot facility was designed. The entire building encompasses only one level, in order to allow easy accessibility to all areas.

The arts and crafts inspired aesthetic has wide spread appeal in the rural Nebraska setting. As a centerpiece to the community the new library acts as a connection to the past and present. A computer lab and digital collections makes access to current technology accessible to all, while a dedicated genealogy room provides a link to the past. Additional spaces include a kid’s room, teen area, dedicated reading zones, and a multipurpose room that can be used by the community after-hours independently from the library.