CHILDREN’S LIBRARY DISCOVERY CENTER
QUEENS LIBRARY
Jamaica, NY
SKOLNICK was retained to design The Children’s Library Discovery Center (CLDC), a new addition to the main branch of the Queens Library. The unique three-level science-focused children’s library includes interactive exhibit stations developed in conjunction with the Exploratorium, the New York Hall of Science, and the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. Working as a team with the client, their exhibit developers, and the project’s architect, SKOLNICK created all the environmental graphics, wayfinding, and interior design enhancements to support the message of this new venture for the Queens Library — “Mapping Our World.”
Services
Environmental Graphic Design
Interpretive Master Planning
Exhibit Design
Size
10,000 sf
Awards
2014 AIA/IIDA Library Interior Design Award
MASterworks Award: Best Neighborhood Catalyst, 2012
ALA 2012 Design Showcase: “Best Youth Spaces”
NAVIGATING THROUGH THE LIBRARY AND QUEENS
Colorful graphic elements announce the CLDC from within the existing library facility. A large floor map of Queens with illustrative icons leads visitors into the Children’s Library Discovery Center and orients them to both the borough at large as well as the various offerings within. Additional wayfinding directories and graphics were developed to identify various features throughout the new building, including “Dewey Lane,” a book stack area on the second level, and the “Cyber Center” computer area.
SCIENCE PLAZAS
Sculptural icons were designed to identify special “science plazas” that incorporate interactive exhibits, changing displays, and reading material related to the natural and physical sciences. In addition, the thematic “under the sea” early childhood area includes a wrap-around mural, ceiling sculpture and custom furniture. The SKOLNICK-designed interiors were developed in association with 1100 Architect, architect for the new building.
“Queens Library’s Children’s Library Discovery Center is a popular, high-traffic library that provides the full range of community library services and homework help with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math and hands-on fun. The colorful, high-energy environment is unquestionably part of the reason families enjoy spending time here.
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RELATED PROJECTS
JACKIE AND HAROLD SPIELMAN CHILDREN’S LIBRARY
YOUNG ADULT ROOM AT EAST HAMPTON LIBRARY
DIMENNA CHILDREN’S HISTORY MUSEUM