The Library Architecture division of Dewberry has been awarded the contract to design Arlington's new Central Library. Within the firm's general focus on multiple types of public architecture, Dewberry has cultivated a particular specialization in library design. They have participated in the study, planning, and design of over 260 library facilities for municipalities and institutions of higher education across the country. Dewberry was recognized in 2014 by the American Library Association and the International Interior Design Association for innovative library projects, including the Centennial Library in Midland, Texas.

Plans for the approximately 80,000 sq. ft. new Central Library building have been guided by the Central Visioning project, begun in December 2009, Libraries Director Cary Siegfried said. "Through that process, the citizens of Arlington chose to keep a Central Library as the hub of the library system and to locate it downtown. I have great confidence that Dewberry will work collaboratively with library staff and the public to design a library that meets Arlington's vision for Central Library services."

The new building, slated to open in 2017, will incorporate spaces for children and teens that are conducive to learning and creating, a literacy center for new adult learners and GED preparation, more space for collections, more reading areas, an extensive computer lab, and community meeting spaces. Built-in flexibility will accommodate future technology needs and space requirements for library programming and individual and group study. An outdoor plaza in front of the library will add leisure space to the downtown area.

Public input about the Central Library Project will be open at a public design charrette on Saturday, December 13, 2014 at the George W. Hawkes Central Library from 2 - 6 p.m. Dewberry architects will present information about the Central Library Project and be available to answer questions and gather input from the public.

More information is available on the Central Library Project web page at http://www.arlington-tx.gov/centrallibrary/. This site will offer construction updates, answers to frequently asked questions, calendar events, library history, special features and fascinating vintage photos.