Winthrop Library

Most of the funding for this new library, built on the former site of a trading post and lending library tracing back to 1898, came via private donations from the small yet engaged Winthrop community. Replacing two smaller libraries, one of which supports almost 30 book clubs, the new light-filled structure provides meeting and library space for the area’s diverse users.

Layout for the rectangular structure centers on two axes—the north/south axis follows the nearby Methow River and the east/west axis points toward Gardner Mountain. Inspired by the community’s love of agrarian buildings, the design features glulam columns and exposed open-web wood and steel trusses. The pin connected trusses reduced material costs, shortened the construction schedule, and provided a finish that fit with other historic wood-frame buildings in the area. Wood baffles line the walls and ceiling, forming sound-absorbent surfaces that diffuse ambient noise to create a comfortable environment.

Built on a tight budget and designed to LEED Silver, the library reflects both the ecological and fiscal values of its patrons and community.


Watch a short one-minute video of this project, which was selected as a 2023 Wood Design Awards winner. View the full award gallery here.