The Issaquah Public Library is a 1500 m² branch
library that represents an expansion and modernization
of library services for Issaquah in a more prominent
and centralized location. It is located in the heart
of the historic downtown core. The design of the
library draws on and reinterprets the traditional
wooden structures of the region as well as makes
reference to the influence of Japanese craft, brought
to this area by immigration in the first half of
the 20th century. Sustainability principles guided
the design. Structurally, engineered wood products
were employed, glue laminated beams with steel flitches,
utilizing the best aspects of each material and
creating an economic structural system. The butterfly
roof which spans the entire space creates clearstory
windows, allowing the soft light to filter within.
A custom lighting system over the book stacks employs
one light source for both direct lighting of the
books and indirect ambient light between book stacks.
The furniture throughout the library is made from
a local product, apple plywood, a by-product of
the apple growing industry.
