A Library Story: Building a New Central Library

With an energetic narrative, Vogel describes the building of the new central library of Minneapolis. What's particularly strong is the way she covers all aspects: why the old library had to be replaced, what the architects Cesar Pelli and Nina Ebbighausen planned, how the construction happened. She explains both building decisions--how the cement for the support pillars was poured--and aesthetic ones, such as the way the glass panels were etched with prairie grass, snow, and trees to reflect the Minnesota landscape. Mankato limestone was quarried nearby, and each of the auditorium's 243 chairs has the name of a Minnesota author on it, from Kate DiCamillo to Louise Erdrich. Children get a glimpse into what a steelworker does, and what a library director does. The plentiful photographs are fascinating, and the endpapers show a newsreel collage of the project from the demolition of the old building to the finished new structure. Excellent for young readers studying buildings, libraries, city planning, careers, or just looking for engaging nonfiction.