That New Library Smell

I was so excited when I learned that the city of Kodiak was in the process of building a brand new library while I was researching Kodiak a few months before we moved here.  They recently had their grand opening, and we went and checked out the new location last weekend.  All I can say is WOW! It's so beautiful, and it even rivals my all time favorite library, the Clearwater, FL Public Library.

Kodiak-themed art

The fireplace is a great focal point

I don't even know where to start.  I think my favorite thing about the building is that the construction was primarily locally sourced materials.  There are these huge support columns all throughout the inside that are from local timber, I would guess Sitka Spruce, but I'm not sure.

Vintage Glass Fishing Floats

The stone work on the fireplace mantle is locally sourced, the art is from Kodiak artists, and the whole feel of the interior is so warm and inviting.  The views out the giant picture windows aren't too shabby, either.

I really liked the art they chose to display.  The wooden benches had fish carved into the wood, and the canvas and photo panel pieces showed different Kodiak scenes.  On either side of the fireplace, there were two displays mounted in between the glass panes of the windows of vintage glass fishing floats.  It was so unique and colorful.

The fire place sitting area. - I loved the four-paneled canvas art here.  So colorful and interesting.

Compass Rose

I'm so glad that we have such a beautiful space for our library!  I also have to mention the truly remarkable compass rose mounted on one of the walls at the entrance way.  The arms are made from Alutiiq wooden kayak paddles.  Another very unique piece to have on display, and very Kodiak!

I can't resist sharing some of the other pictures I took that day because there was so much to admire.  As you might have gathered, I'm kind of into libraries.  :)  Especially new ones!  Here are a few of the front entry way, stacks, and giant window views.  Impressive!

Front entry way looking toward the fire place.  I love how dramatic the
columns look & the detail of the wood beams along the ceiling

Stacks

Nice view, love the huge windows and beautiful woodwork

I used the old library pretty often, but I can see how much more enjoyable it will be wandering around this extraordinary space.  So open and airy, but comfortable and cozy at the same time.  I'm such a sucker for a new library, and now I have a brand spanking new one in my home town.  Sweet!  Now if they could just figure out a way to bottle that lovely new library smell...

Ta-ta for now.