Magnolia Branch Highlights
The current Magnolia Branch was expanded and reopened July 12, 2008. The landmark building is recognized as an example of Northwest design with distinct influences of Japan.
History
Serving Magnolia since 1943
Library service in Magnolia dates back to 1943 when residents raised money for a rental space. The Library provided books and part-time librarian help, and eventually took over the other expenses.
The Magnolia Bluff Station moved several times and became a full branch in the late 1940s, but still needed a permanent location.
In 1956, Seattle voters passed a $5 million bond issue to replace the Central Library and to use leftover money to build new branches, including in Magnolia. The branch opened July 17, 1964.
Architecture
Local influences indoors and out
The Magnolia Branch is the last of the 27 projects completed under the "Libraries for All" building program.
Noted Seattle architect Paul Hayden Kirk designed the Magnolia Branch. The expansion was built by Graham Contracting Ltd. and designed by Snyder Hartung Kane Strauss Architects.
Art
“Catch + Release” by artist Kristin Tollefson
Bainbridge Island artist Kristin Tollefson designed a pair of site-specific sculptures called "Catch + Release" for the building - a branch suspended from the meeting room above the south window and a basket outside the south window. In addition, artwork on display in the original building is now back in the expanded branch.
Named Spaces
Spaces named for donors include:
Dean and Mary Thornton Children's Area and Jim Thixton and Carol Bennett Thixton Meeting Room