Ann Arbor District Library - Pittsfield Branch

I've now visited the Pittsfield Branch Library several times to pick-up requested materials. So I've looked around a bit at the city's newest branch library and have mixed feelings about it. This isn't a negative review but look at it like constructive criticism.

At this point, time has past where useful critiquing about the exterior can make a difference but I will say that aesthetically, it's an ugly building. It's hard, cold and metallic and everything that I don't like in modern architecture. It looks like a place that you would find frozen embryos and not paper books to browse. But at the same time, I applaud the library organization for incorporating a lot of environmentally friendly materials and energy conserving construction. That is not done enough these days and should be something that ALL commercial construction should aspire to. The property has also been well utilized with the natural resources honored and preserved. So points for materials and methods but loss of points for aesthetics.

The inside of the building is also a mixed bag. I like the open architecture that allows for lots of natural lighting from the southern exposure. There's a roominess that invites nice deep breaths. There's also a lovely reading room with a centrally placed fireplace and some comfy chairs. Plants have been brought in to create a natural break between walkway and lounge area. But beyond those things, trouble lurks everywhere. The shelving is incredibly industrial looking in keeping with the hard exterior. Ugly and uncomfortable furniture lurks in almost every alcove. The chairs are in hideous colors and resemble some sort of sling-back torture device where only children under 12 are able to get in and out of without pulling or straining some muscle. Then there's the centrally located noise device that allows patrons to fire balls using pressurized air up tall tubes. I say bring a lovely tree into the building which could grow there or create a small green habitat with different plant species that could be beautiful and educational. Anything but the noisy, ugly monstrosity that now inhabits the library's central location. Points for the sitting room but negatives for most everything else.

There's plenty of room for improvement is my overall opinion. I hope the Pittsfield Branch Library will evolve over time and turn into an inviting and comfortable environment as should be the case for all libraries.