Take a Picture Tour of Uniquely Transformative Reby Cary Youth Library
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New Images Released of Fort Worth, Texas Library Designed by KAI
When many of us think of a traditional library, we generally imagine rows of bookshelves, tables with chairs, a check-out counter, and some standard seating. Now imagine a public library just for children; how would that look?
When posed with that same question, the designers at KAI answered with activity stations, bright colors, interactive art installations and cozy cubbies – not what you would expect from a traditional library. But then again, the new Reby Cary Youth Library in Fort Worth, Texas is anything but typical – it is extraordinary.
As the first Fort Worth Public Library designed specifically for children, teens and their caregivers, the $5.49 million library officially opened on Aug. 14 to much fanfare. Special guests at the ribbon cutting included Mayor Mattie Parker, District 8 City Councilman Chris Nettles, Library Director Manya Shorr and former City Councilmember Kelly Allen Gray. Faith Ellis, daughter of the library’s namesake – local African American educator Reby Cary – also participated in the ceremony.
Here’s a special look inside the transformative Reby Cary Youth Library:
KAI’s team immersed itself into the community to gather public input in an effort to blend the building with the historical elements of the surrounding neighborhood.In addition to providing architectural and interior design services on the project, KAI also coordinated the civil, landscape, structural/mechanical/electrical/plumbing engineering, fire protection, audio-visual, lighting, technology and cost estimating services through various teaming partners.The design team worked closely with award-winning artist Creative Machines to originate an interactive public art installation suspended from the ceiling called “Only Connect.”The remarkable installation is made up of over 20,000 glass marbles and cascading LED lights. Visitors can manipulate the artwork’s lighted colors and patterns through the simple touch of a button and sensor points distributed throughout the library.The 8,000-square-foot library also includes amenities such as a large outdoor sensory garden to encourage neighbors to gather at the library, a maker space which utilizes technology for creative activities, and multiple study rooms.Instead of tall-stacked bookshelves and hardback chairs typical of a traditional library, the library has lower shelving and seating designed to encourage families to read together.
