Deschutes County Library System, Bend, OR
40,000 sf
Completed in 1998

THA Architecture provided building design and interior furnishings for this public library in Central Oregon. The building serves as the technical service center for the entire Deschutes County Library system and provides full library services to the public. The two-story building is a simple basilica form, and has played a key role in the rejuvenation of Bend's historic downtown area. The first floor houses a generous public lobby with circulation desk, a meeting room, staff work rooms and a large children's library. A grand stair leads to a single large open space on the second floor, with open book stacks, reference desks and a variety of public reading and study areas. The space features a high wood ceiling, clerestory lighting, exposed wood beams, columns and large windows which overlook mountains to the west.

Bend Public Library received a 1999 AIA Portland Chapter Merit Award.