Visionary Redesign Study
Completed 2019
45,000 square feet
Historic Rehabilitation | Renovation

In early 2019, Oudens Ello Architecture was hired by the City of Burlington to develop a ‘Visionary Redesign’ for the Fletcher Free Library, the City’s existing, 45,000 square foot public library. The proposed improvements are comprised of renovations to the historic 1902 Carnegie Building, renovations to its c. 1980 building addition and related site improvements. Primary features of the existing Library's transformation include a new organization of programmatic spaces throughout to maximize functionality and flexibility, new energy efficient systems, including a new high-performance window wall to replace a 40-year old curtain wall system with a history of leaks, and the reestablishment of the Carnegie Building's historic main entrance, the current use of which is limited to a handful of summer events on the front lawn. The reactivation of the historic entrance will serve to energize the entire Library property and encourage foot traffic from the City's commercial areas west of S. Winooski Avenue. Additional site improvements include upgrades to utilities and stormwater management, a new vehicular book drop, entry walk, and a secure, outdoor program and reading terrace.