Woburn Public Library Renovation, Expansion Honored For Design

WOBURN, MA — The Woburn Public Library last month was honored for excellence in architectural design for its renovation and expansion project, which was completed in 2019.

Woburn was one of five libraries to receive the 2023 AIA/ALA Library Building Award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the American Library Association (ALA).

The $33 million renovation and expansion project in Woburn, which was designed by CBT Architects, added 30,500 square feet to a building originally designed by Henry Hobson Richardson in 1876.

"The library has long occupied an elevated site at the center of Woburn and has been widely celebrated for its architectural majesty," The AIA wrote in its description of the winning project. "The new addition marries past and present to shape a 21st-century library ready to serve a growing community."

The AIA called the original design's cultural and historical significance the building's greatest asset and its greatest challenge when it came to renovation and expansion.

"Through collaborations with Woburn's leaders, library staff and patrons, the design team opted for transparency and subtle gestures to amplify the original library's beauty," AIA wrote.

The AIA continued: "The ultimate solution was a high spatial volume encased in glass, which minimizes intersections with the existing facade but allows light that highlights the architectural details. A sensitive structural intervention allows new passageways through the north sandstone wall to maintain spatial continuity and circulation between new and old."

The AIA also highlighted how the architects upgraded the building's aged systems to current standards, including building an addition that is LEED Gold certified and features an exterior glazing system that draws in ample daylight while reducing solar heat gain.

"Inclusive and efficient, the addition has revived the library's status as a vibrant community center," the AIA wrote. "Its flexible spaces accommodate future growth and shifting community needs, while its improved accessibility creates a welcoming learning environment for all."

According to the AIA, the winning projects were selected by a five-person jury that featured both architects and academics.