Bibliothèque de Montmagny

The relationship between city and river is special in Montmagny, a historic town on the banks of the St. Lawrence. This majestic river comes alive in the fall with thousands of snow geese; its shores are a key part of the city’s identity. This preservation and expansion project took root in a bustling downtown core, near several key public buildings and a park: it is a connection between nature and cityscape. Its whiteness recalls the magical flight of geese over the river and the local architecture’s simple, white volumes. A pedestrian promenade is a key element, sheltered under a long awning next to an imposing bay window. The new construction melds with an existing former presbytery, an important heritage building, gently integrating into the site. The forecourt showcases the stunning former manse. In a departure from the traditional library model, the building’s design is focussed on the user and his/her diverse interactions, rather than on document storage. Books occupy walls, stairs and alcoves, leaving space for myriad activities and minimizing shelving. Large openings, furniture choice and a strategic layout work together to maximize natural light.