The existing Melrose Branch Library occupied a 6,000 SF, one story brick building dating to the 1950’s. The Melrose community in the City of Roanoke is rich in culture and diversity, and many of the economically challenged residents depend on the resources offered by the Library. Enteros Design was hired to evaluate the existing facility, programs, and collections as part of recommendations for a new or expanded library facility.
As part of our study, the City of Roanoke wanted to consider building the library adjacent to a regional Goodwill community outreach center in a former shopping center. The community outreach center provides job training, job placement, computer training, and other counseling services. The joint use facility, combining the community outreach services with the programs and resources offered by the library, would provide the community with job assistance, literature, culture, and entertainment in one location.
Enteros Design designed the renovations needed to transform the former shopping center into a 13,000 square foot branch library facility. The new library will have approximately 35,000 items in the collection, a 100 person community room, a café, a business center, study rooms, a Teen center, and STEAM lab. The exterior will be enhanced by new wall panels, a stainless steel mesh screen wall, outdoor terrace, and an enclosed children’s garden.