Celebrating the Past While Creating the Present & Imagining the Future Through the Hamline Midway Library

Abstract

Architecture is more than four walls and a roof. It becomes a beacon of a community. As a country the United States is relatively young, hence the architecture is not as historic as other countries. As a whole, there seems to be a pattern that if the building is not working, tearing it down and starting over is the only option. Throughout this thesis there will be research on why preserving these historic buildings is essential and why they are important to the community surrounding the building. The Hamline Midway Library is only one example of buildings being torn down because saving the existing building is too much work. Yes, the building is not functioning in a way that is conducive to either the community or the people that work there. Is it possible to preserve history and keep the exterior while making the interior a place more functional to the surrounding area? Does the structure have to stay a library? What is needed within the building that will benefit and continue to provide a sense of belonging to those who use it? There will be further research throughout this thesis to evaluate what will be more beneficial for all users. The research that will help determine the best solution for the Hamline Midway Library will include case studies, literary analysis, and talking to people who fought to save the existing building. From buildings that moved into an existing building and did a complete remodel to a library that has more than one resource to provide the community, the case studies will provide what makes a library work. Looking at the proposed new design to see what is being changed/added to the library will also give an insight into what needs to be changed within the existing structure.