Located at the corner of Germantown Avenue and East Sedgwick Street in the Mt. Airy section of Philadelphia, Lovett Memorial Library is comprised of an original 1886 stone structure and a modern 1960 addition. The 21st Century Libraries project added a second addition, expanding the overall square footage and meeting the new program requirements. The project not only added significant new construction housing a new elevator and ADA-compliant toilet rooms, but also completely renovated both the existing 1960 addition and the original 1886 building. A new accessible entry was also added, allowing access to the main level of the existing library directly from Germantown Avenue. A large Children’s Library is a significant portion of the new addition, with access to a covered porch which leads to the large outdoor Lovett Park. Significant sitework and hardscaping in Lovett Park improved this outdoor area which is a beloved community resource.
The mezzanine of the existing 1960 structure was converted into a new computer area, and the main level of the structure accommodates new staff work areas. Two significant spaces in the original 1886 building were restored to their former grandeur: a curved room which was fit-out with a custom banquette and is known as the Quiet Room, and the historic Community Meeting Room which has its original fireplace, impressive chandeliers, as well as stained glass details. Lighting was replaced throughout, and all systems were replaced and upgraded.
“The Free Library Foundation found INTECH to be a great partner, always responsive to our questions and needs as well as those of the community members in each neighborhood. Its staff is highly professional and was a pleasure to work with. We appreciate INTECH’s dedication to high-quality work.”
Sandra A. Horrocks Vice President, External Affairs, Parkway Central Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation