The new Riviera Beach Library is officially open! On April 25, 2024, Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL) officials opened the new Riviera Beach Library at 1130 Duvall Highway in Pasadena.
The new 20,000-square-foot building, filled with an all-new collection of books and other materials, plenty of window seating and numerous device charging areas, doubles the size of the former library and provides greater visibility and countless community resources. Designed by local architects Grimm and Parker, the nautical-themed facility features:
- A large children’s area and Discovery Dock,
- 4 small group study/collaboration spaces,
- A dedicated teen space with a study/gaming hub,
- 20 public computers,
- A large outdoor boardwalk patio,
- Wi-Fi access inside and outside the building,
- A print center for business/entrepreneur/job seeker help,
- A café area and expansive lobby area for informal gathering,
- A large dividable meeting room with 90 chairs for theatre-style seating or 12 tables with 36 chairs for banquet style seating,
- A shared kitchenette accessible to the full meeting room or each divided meeting room space,
- 4 individual study pods for semi-private, connected independent work,
- 3 booths of diner-style seating with integrated charging,
- A “yellow submarine” multi-purpose programming room,
- An OWL device to run hybrid meetings with in-person and video conferencing,
- EV charging stations (coming soon!).
The design concept ties into the local nautical context and the area's history of being a resort community at the edge of the Chesapeake Bay. The building is expected to receive LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver certification, a symbol of sustainability achievement.
Funding for the $16 million project comes from Anne Arundel County and the County Library Capital Grant Program, Maryland State Library Agency.
“I am thrilled to see the completion of this much-needed addition to our community," said County Executive Pittman. "The Riviera Beach Library will serve as a hub for learning, creativity and connection for residents of all ages.”
“The Riviera Beach Library is more than just a building filled with books," said AACPL CEO Skip Auld. “It is a catalyst for positive change within our community promoting education, inclusivity and empowerment. I appreciate the community’s patience during construction, and I know the positive impact this library will have on our customers is sure to be felt for years to come.”
The Riviera Beach Library is hosting the Riviera Beach Community Festival on Saturday, May 18th, from 10 am – 1 pm to celebrate the opening of the new library. Regular scheduled storytimes will begin on Monday, May 20th, and as summer begins, Riviera Beach Library will offer events for all ages. Visit the Riviera Beach Library events calendar for a full list of upcoming programs. We can’t wait to welcome you to our newest library!
Published May 15, 2024