Frederick County has been growing through significant residential development to house many who work in the Washington DC metro area. The former Middletown Branch was leading the library system in both visits and circulation while operating in a small 2,500 SF facility. This much needed new 15,000 SF building will expand library services to better serve the demand in this growing community.

The new library incorporates a high level of flexibility with a thoughtful layout that improves functionality, material flow, accessibility, and longevity. A raised access floor system distributes HVAC along with power and data under the floor which allows for easy maintenance access and the ability to move power and data in the future as needs change. In line with County environmental goals, LEED guidelines will be met, but formal certification will not be pursued. Children’s programming is especially popular, and accommodations were designed into the facility for that need. A family activity room with durable finishes and an overhead door opens to the children’s space where mobile shelving and furniture is on casters for easy reconfiguration to accommodate overflow events. Additionally, the large meeting room adjacent to the Children’s area features a glass retractable wall to accommodate periodic large children’s events. Flexibility carries into the adult area with a glassy flex-seating area flanked by screened porches on either side for outdoor reading areas.

The design takes advantage of the sloped site to create sweeping views of Middletown. Wood, stone, and rolling hill motifs are woven into the finishes with clean architectural lines and vaulted space to create a light airy aesthetic with undertones that reflect the nature and history of the area and resonate with patrons.