Page 18 - Bernardon K-12 Statement of Qualifications

Saint Aloysius Academy Library

Owner/User: Saint Aloysius Academy

Location: Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania
Design Statement: A private K-8 Catholic boys’ school,
Saint Aloysius Academy recognized its 40-year-old library
was inadequate for its current enrollment and curriculum.
The design for a new media center captured a courtyard
space to expand the library adjacent to the split-level
academic building, enabling a 50 percent growth in
collections and amenities.

The 2,100 SF library integrates with existing campus
architecture while providing a home for 21st century Terraced reading levels and short staircases alleviate a
learning. Challenging site constraints and accessibility structural underpinning issue and match the floor heights
concerns elicited a multi-level design with book terraces of the new library with the adjacent academic building
that define formal and informal settings. A traditional main Careful roof profiles maintain adequate daylight in the
reading room is complemented by intimate, kid-sized library while preserving views in nearby classrooms.
alcoves. The lower-level staircase performs double-duty as a
“story hour” amphitheater for the youngest students. Architect of Record: Lee A. Casaccio, AIA

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