Tufts Library

Weymouth, Massachusetts

Firm

Tappé Architects

Client

Weymouth Public Libraries

Area

52,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$25,956,599

Completion Date

10/2020

Ed Wonsek Art Works

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Weymouth’s 400th anniversary celebration centerpiece, Tufts Library, delivers diverse reading, study, and interactive spaces to satisfy modern patrons’ needs. Local materials, historical connections and vistas help this civic center stay true to surrounding vernacular.

Eighteen unique rooms accommodate activities like preschool crafts and tutoring. Seating options abound with immersive book nooks, custom-lighted A-frame shelving, and a timeless color and material palette.

The first-floor gallery descends the site’s slope, opening to a wide two-story curtain wall, blurring the inside and out with its thin profile. The curved wood slat ceiling extending across the spine of the library is inspired by a ship’s hull. The terrazzo flooring echoes local creek patterns and the tranquil water feature.

The children’s library, with dynamic wall graphics and cove lighting, features a story/craft room and windows looking out to the adjoining park and terraced playground. The teens library, with exposed ceilings, chalkboard-like graphics and feature wall composed of walnut and sign lights, exudes coffee shop vibes. The heart of the second floor features a glass digital media lab.