East Boston High School, Anna Fisher Library/Media Center

Boston, Massachusetts

Firm

Cole and Goyette, Architects and Planners

Client

Boston Department of Neighborhood Development

Area

208,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$16,000,000

Completion Date

01/2001

The Anna Fisher Library/Media Center at East Boston High School was designed as a state-of-the-art teaching library for young adults. For 1,200 students and more than 100 faculty and staff of the school, this library provides a warm, welcoming facility for study, research and instruction for an individual student or the class as a whole. The extensive work performed to transform this former cafeteria has greatly enhanced the school.
The main reading room is equipped with individual study carrels wired for computer use. Tables and bookshelves along the north wall are kept low to take advantage of the large north-facing windows, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the room. The multipurpose area provides a space for instruction, and the small-group room can be used for activities such as oral presentations or viewing audiovisual materials. The strategic placement of the circulation desk and the glazed opening between the work area and the multipurpose area allow for optimum supervision of the library.

“Warm, soft colors and open space. Nice lighting pattern. Good use of windows.”–2001 jury