Walker Library opened on April 26, 2014 after closing to allow for its reconstruction. The new library is a stark contrast to its predecessor, which was subterranean. The new, window-heavy library has a little more public floor space and a distinctly open feel. Below is a partial tour of the space.
The entrance to the new Walker Library in Uptown Minneapolis
A look at one of the reading areas that generally line the massive glass wall along Hennepin Avenue at the new Walker Library
A look towards the Lagoon-Hennepin corner from within the Walker Library. Reading a book while people watching may be difficult.
A computer area consumes the center of the Walker Library’s new main room flanked by stacks on either end.
A look from the north end of the library of the stacks.
A reading area adjacent the Mall on the north end of the new library
A study/conference room within the new Walker Library. A two-seat study room is adjacent.
A greenish-yellow light box casts light into the library and adds a playful, yet-eloquent addition to the large library main room.
Another view of the light boxes
Behind the main room is the kids area, back of house, and large meeting room.
Letters adorn the ceiling of the children’s area, which I learned is a small nod to the local Suburban World Theater’s star-studded ceiling.
A different kind of light box piques the interest of kids.
One side of the underground parking ramp, which was not yet open at the time.
Certainly the cheapest short-term parking in Uptown, but very limited hours of operation. Glad to see they’re charging for parking though, so people can park once and run multiple errands.
These gates apparently have been at all of the Walker Libraries and came from Walker’s old house. This is in the lower-level lobby of the parking garage. Glad they kept them but I hope they add a plaque. It’s unfortunate they didn’t get a nicer place to reside.
Thatcher Imboden
How cities work and change, how they are the product of their inhabitants and outside forces, and the resulting livability keep me thinking and dreaming about the future. I work in transit oriented development and have a background in urban real estate development. I am Past President of an Uptown business organization, grew up in Uptown, was on an Uptown neighborhood association Board, and am an Uptown and Lyn-Lake historian.
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