Contractor: Evans Contractors
Owner: Knox County Public Library System
Architect: The Lewis Group Architects, Inc.
Landscape Planting Design: Garry Menendez, ASLA
Engineering: Will Robinson & Associates (Civil), WCT Associates (Structural)
Engineering Services Group (Mechanical), Vreeland Engineering (Electrical)

This project is located in historic Fountain City and replaces a smaller facility. “The design challenge was to create a new town landmark away from the historic town center – one that would broaden the town center and be as memorable as other town landmarks.”

A new library was built at Essary and Stanton roads to provide more space for both books and patrons. From the beginning, a landscape architect from the community volunteered to serve as a liaison between the Public Building Authority, the architects, and local residents. The design features an entry colonnade that provides covered access from the parking lot. The building was sighted as it stands now in order to preserve a large, existing ash tree; the tree was not able to survive a storm, but it is remembered in the tree details of the library.

This is the view of the library fronting Essary Road and the only sign for the library. It is difficult to see the sign when traveling west because that part of the building is stepped back. This view also shows that other existing trees on site were preserved and incorporated into the site plan.

This is a closer view of the donated bronzed book fountain and outdoor reading area used by library patrons.

The parking lot, service drive, and 24-hour book drop are located at the side and back of the library. A steep slope and bank of rocks make access from the neighboring apartments difficult. The book drop is separated from the parking lot by a long expanse of concrete.

The front of the library is nicely landscaped and the utility unit is screened behind a brick wall.

In contrast, this is the view of the library from the apartments next door. It shows the challenges of designing a building that has public views from all sides, especially in relation to placement of utilities.

The circulation desk is located centrally in the library and is easily accessible to all users. There is also a circulation desk for children at a lower height. The library has plenty of computers available to users, plus sitting areas for reading and table work.

The interior design includes a creative and special place for children to use and enjoy, which also incorporates tree details.

There was a lot of community support for this project. When budget constraints threatened the design, the community rallied together and raised $80,000 to furnish the columns, the simulated slate roof, and the landscaping.

A Heritage Committee raised additional funds and collaborated with the UT McClung Museum to install display cases inside the library entrance to feature rotating exhibits on the history of Fountain City.