Branch libraries in some cities are as architecturally mundane and forgettable as the endless strip malls, box stores and fast-food franchises that surround them.
But virtually from the beginning of Denver’s library system, its leaders have believed that form was as important as function, more or less consistently investing in high-quality architecture.
The tradition started early in the 20th century when philanthropist Andrew Carnegie donated $80,000 to build the first four branch libraries in 1913 and another $80,000 in 1916 for a second group of four.
Library officials picked some of Denver’s best architects for these projects, and the designers rose to the occasion, creating striking, distinctive buildings in styles reflective of the neighborhoods in which they were built.
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Decker, 1501 S. Logan St., 1913, Marean and Norton. This V-shaped structure is said to have been inspired by the English cottage where William Shakespeare was born. Architectural highlights include its green-tile roof, large fireplace, vaulted ceiling with ornate, wood trusswork and Pre-Raphaelite-style murals by Denver artist Dudley Carpenter. (Post / Lyn Alweis) |
Not only are many of those libraries still in use, including the cottage-like Decker Branch, 1501 S. Logan St., and Spanish-style Park Hill Branch, 4705 Montview Blvd., the architecture easily has stood the test of time and still ranks among the best in the city’s history.
With a few exceptions, that tradition of excellence has continued when library officials chose Denver architect Michael Brendle to design an airy, highly contemporary branch at 100 Poplar St. as part of the redevelopment of the former Lowry Air Force Base.
“We have been absolutely fortunate from the first librarian to (current city librarian) Rick Ashton,” said Denver architect David Owen
Tryba.”Everything comes from the top, and he’s made the determination to stay with the legacy of the librarians who came before him.”
Visitors touring the Denver Central Library and the city’s 22 branch libraries can get a surprisingly comprehensive lesson in 20th and 21st century architecture from arts and crafts and other historic styles through modernism and post-modernism.
At the same time, they can see examples of works by internationally known architect Michael Graves, plus some of Denver’s top architects, including the late Burnham Hoyt and Victor Hornbein.
“We as architects have been very lucky to have them as patrons that demand a certain level of excellence and are willing to take risks,” Tryba said of the library system.
In some cases, the library system was willing to get ahead of public taste and embrace controversial vanguard approaches.
Examples include Hornbein’s Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired design for the Ross-Broadway Branch, 33 E. Bayaud Ave., and the unconventional Bear Valley Branch, 5171 W. Dartmouth Ave.
Radical or not, all the libraries have been accepted by patrons, and most have become local landmarks.
“I think they have really tried to do good architecture,” Brendle said of the library system. “I think they’ve tried to respond to the community. They haven’t thrown up cheap buildings or temporary buildings.
“Libraries – they’re public buildings, so there’s a great deal of civic pride associated with them, and I think they recognize that.”
