STAMFORD, February 28, 2023 – The Ferguson Library has hired New York-based architecture firm HMA2 to conduct a feasibility study of all its facilities to plan for system-wide growth over the next decade.
The study will quantify existing space and infrastructure deficiencies in library buildings and suggest how best to reimagine space and improve services over the next ten years. With input from the community, library boards and staff, the HMA2 team will evaluate the Main Library, Harry Bennett, South End and Weed Memorial & Hollander branches and present a detailed report on how to reconfigure space to improve customer experience. A key goal is developing flexible spaces at all locations that meet current community needs and anticipate future requirements.
The project will further the library’s vision of creating welcoming public spaces that foster a strong, vibrant and inclusive community. The study is being funded by the Ferguson Library Foundation and the City of Stamford.
"We are looking forward to this work, which will help us identify priorities for our facilities,” said Ferguson Library CEO Alice Knapp. “This planning process will ensure that our users have a welcoming experience, regardless of which facility they visit.”
“Our team is very excited to learn more about the diverse communities and needs of Stamford,” said Henry Myerberg, founder of HMA2 architects. “We look forward to collaborating with the Ferguson Library team, setting the stage to update and transform the existing facilities into even more powerfully useful and inviting places for everyone.”
The Ferguson Library is Stamford’s public library system, consisting of the Main Library, DiMattia Building; the Harry Bennett Branch; the Weed Memorial & Hollander Branch; the South End Branch and a traveling Bookmobile. It provides free and equal access to information, ideas, books and technology to educate, engage and enrich the Stamford community. For more information visit https://www.fergusonlibrary.org/.
HMA2 architects, launched in 1986, has planned and completed over 35 libraries for municipalities, schools, and colleges worldwide. These library projects typically involved transforming and activating existing and underutilized spaces. The intended outcomes are inviting places to better serve and build community, realized with available resources.