Adams Street Library by WORKac: A Modern Public Space Rooted in History

The Adams Street Library, designed by WORKac, marks a significant milestone as the Brooklyn Public Library's first new branch in over two decades. Located in DUMBO's Historic District, this innovative space seamlessly blends contemporary design with the rich industrial heritage of its 1901 building.

A Community-Centered Design

Extensive community engagement in Dumbo, Vinegar Hill, and the Farragut Houses revealed a critical need for children’s spaces and educational programming. In response, the library places children at its core, offering dedicated learning areas, storytime zones, and expansive views of Brooklyn Bridge Park. The branch also provides new book collections, cutting-edge technology, and extensive programming for teens and young adults in a dedicated teen space.

Flexible, Multi-Purpose Spaces for Public Use

Designed to support community engagement, the library includes two adaptable multi-purpose rooms equipped with:

• Stackable chairs and foldable tables for events
• Whiteboards for interactive learning
• A kitchenette for workshops and meetings
• Integrated Wi-Fi, charging stations, and projection capabilities

Additionally, the library features inclusive, gender-neutral restrooms and generous spaces for both patrons and staff, making it a truly accessible public space.

Historic Elements Meet Contemporary Design

Situated under the Manhattan Bridge, the Adams Street Library occupies a former torpedo factory and recycling facility turned into modern apartments and commercial spaces. The design pays homage to this layered history by:

• Exposing the original heavy timber ceilings through contemporary curved openings.
• Preserving the patinaed brick perimeter walls, enhancing the contrast with modern elements.
• Incorporating pixelated murals inspired by the neighborhood’s natural surroundings.

A Light-Filled Pavilion for Children

Encased by 15-foot-high windows, the library is structured around an elevated children’s pavilion designed for young visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, East River, and park. The pavilion, clad in CNC-milled maple-veneered MDF, features:

• Custom-designed niches for stroller parking and book storage
• Vibrant orange interiors that create a playful, inviting space
• Storytime seating areas with tiered steps for reading and play

A Landmark Sign for a New Community Hub

The library’s entrance is boldly marked by a super-graphic sign reading “LIBRARY,” a design approved by the Landmarks Commission as a modern reinterpretation of historic painted signage in the area. Visible from across the East River, the sign establishes a clear identity for this vital public resource, reinforcing the library’s role as a cultural and educational hub for Brooklyn.