It's not news to anyone who follows library design that the mission is expanding from one of providing room for reading and research to a more complex, community-driven model that serves as a hub for a much broader range of activities. Hospitality-influenced amenities already permeate newer libraries and renovations in the form of lounges, cafes, and multipurpose event spaces. Now, some (literally) cutting-edge libraries are taking it a step further, adding kitchens for demonstrations and patron use. Mike Zuehlke, an architect at Engberg Anderson (see Meadowridge Branch Library), says, "Food is one of those things that we all share-across cultures, races, economic, or educational level. Few things promote gathering and interaction as well as a shared meal."
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