The Austin Public Library Foundation announced earlier this week that the schematics for the new central library location have been approved by the City of Austin. The new central library is scheduled to open in 2015. As opposed to the current location right in the middle of downtown, the new location will be situated on Cesar Chavez, overlooking Ladybird Lake.
The Foundation say of the new foundation that:
The building’s schematic design employs ambitious sustainable strategies such as energy efficient integrated systems, extensive use of daylight, a rainwater harvesting system, a vegetated roof and other features that will establish Austin’s central library as the most sustainable in the country.
The design also captures Austin’s unique character and natural beauty by means of outdoor reading porches, a rooftop garden, a street level café, and a bike garage.
While the construction will probably lead to an increase in traffic on Cesar Chavez, making the city’s vehicle congestion all that much more difficult, it looks like it’s going to be worth it. Construction is slated to begin in the summer of 2013.
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