We were in Steamboat Springs this weekend for the Balloon Rodeo - which was actually two separate events 
– and I got a chance to check out the Bud Werner Memorial Library. I know it’s a resort town, but the building has to be in one of the most perfect locations of any library.
Back of Library
Abutting the Yampa River (and the smelly sulphur springs there, which luckily you can’t smell inside), it’s right next to the bike and walking path that parallels downtown, and there’s a bridge from the parking lot to this park, so it’s an easy and lovely walk from anywhere in town.
Park with bridge to library
There’s an outside balcony to extend your mountain views and double your reading pleasure.
And many glass enclosed reading spaces with wonderful vistas.
View of Yampa River & Howelson Hill Ski Jump
The interior is lovely, with carpets and stained glass that remind you of the forests of the area and a nice interior balcony with even more views.
Even the bike rack outside is a piece of art.
They’ve got a coffee shop with a used book sale, self check and self pickup of holds, and at least 30 public internet computers (most in use on the summer Monday when I visited) with its own reservation and print management system. Plus the adult internet computers are in a nice dim area – perfect for screen viewing. There are quiet study/meeting rooms all over, and a great fish tank in the kids’ area (as well as a teepee). I also noticed preferred parking for fuel efficient vehicles – stay green Steamboat!
I can’t think of when I’ve seen a library more physically integrated into its surroundings.
Pingback: These are a few of our favorite things (at public libraries) | The Librarian is In