Dare to imagine a library that redefines the very essence of a modern learning space? That’s exactly what the Charles Library at Temple University achieves. This isn’t just a repository for books. It’s a vibrant hub designed to foster collaboration and ignite intellectual curiosity.
The Charles Library opened its doors in the fall of 2019. It quickly became the new social and academic heart of Temple University. Over 39,000 students now benefit from its state-of-the-art facilities. The library welcomes over 5 million visitors annually. That’s more than double the capacity of its predecessor, Paley Library.
Snøhetta, in collaboration with Stantec, designed this architectural marvel. The Charles Library reinterprets the traditional library typology. It seamlessly integrates diverse collaborative and social learning spaces. The library sits at the intersection of two major pedestrian pathways. Polett Walk and Liacouras Walk converge here.
Notice the building’s solid base. It’s clad in vertical sections of split-faced granite. This design choice subtly references the materials found throughout the surrounding campus. Grand wooden arched entrances beckon you inside. These arches create a welcoming point of entry.
Step inside the Charles Library. A dramatic three-story domed atrium lobby will greet you. The soaring arches continue into the building. This central atrium features a 24/7 zone. It also provides computing workspaces for Philadelphia residents. An oculus is carved into the expansive cedar-clad dome. Light pours into the lobby from the uppermost floor.
The steel-clad main stair is immediately visible. It winds up to the highest level of the building. This invites everyone to explore all of the library’s resources. Visual and physical connectivity helps people maintain their bearings as they move through the building.
Let’s talk about the “BookBot.” This affectionate term refers to the high-density automated storage and retrieval system or ASRS. It stands fifty-seven feet tall. The BookBot spans three levels of the library. It currently stores 1.5 million volumes. Its capacity reaches nearly 2 million. This allows holdings previously stored off-site to be relocated on-site. The BookBot drastically reduces space needed for book storage. This creates increased space for collaborative learning.
The Charles Library houses multiple partner programs and academic resources. The Student Success Center is located on the second and third floors. It offers writing and tutoring support. The Loretta C. Duckworth Scholars Studio provides access to digital fabrication and immersive technologies. Temple University Press also resides within the library.
Venture to the fourth floor. Here, you’ll find a serene and sun-filled retreat. Meander through the stacks of the library’s browsable collection. Roughly 200,000 volumes anchor the center of the room. More private study spaces line its perimeter. The fourth floor is glazed on all four sides. It offers views of the lush green roof.
The Charles Library’s green roof covers over 70 percent of the building’s roof surface. That’s 47,300 square feet. It’s one of the largest green roofs in Pennsylvania. It also plays a key role in the site’s stormwater management system. The roof gardens feature ornamental grasses and herbaceous perennials.
The Charles Library at Temple University stands as a testament to innovation. It’s a place where tradition meets the future. It’s a space designed to inspire.