As designers, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to create spaces that are accessible and welcoming to everyone, regardless of age, gender, ability, or background. Inclusive design ensures that our spaces are functional, flexible, and resilient enough to meet the needs of all users. 

From our very first meeting with Cheryl Heid, Grimes Public Library Director, she made it abundantly clear that inclusivity wasn’t negotiable for this project. She is deeply invested in her patrons, understanding their needs firsthand and recognizing the shortcomings of their current space in effectively serving the community.

A library plays a vital role in social infrastructure by serving as a community anchor — a safe, inclusive, and accessible space where people of all ages and backgrounds can gather, learn, and connect. It fosters social cohesion by offering programs, resources, and opportunities that encourage interaction, collaboration, and mutual understanding. Through free access to books, technology, and educational materials, libraries help bridge information and literacy gaps, promoting equity and lifelong learning. 

With these values in mind, the design of Grimes Public Library places inclusivity at the forefront, ensuring all visitors feel welcome and supported in this community-centered space. The library has three main collection zones tailored to children, teens, and adults as well as a public resource zone that provides creative areas for innovation, venues for cultural events and discussions as well as civic engagement.

While each zone had a driving purpose, it was important to build in flexibility of not only how the space would be used, but also who was going to be using it. These spaces are not just for books – they are facilitating meaningful interactions and shared experiences. From engaging play sessions for babies to reading skill programs for young students, the library offers enriching opportunities for all ages. Family nights and game nights for teens promote community bonding, while adult book clubs and workshops provide opportunities for lifelong learning. The flexible zones seamlessly adapt to host a range of activities, transforming the library into a place where the entire community can connect.

At the heart of the children’s collection, a captivating treehouse invites exploration, creativity, and moments of refuge.  Its design features an accessible zone for easy wheelchair access at the base, ensuring all children can enjoy and engage with the structure. Surrounding the treehouse, hands-on learning areas filled with toys, building blocks, and interactive elements create an environment that encourages discovery and interaction, setting the stage for the youngest visitors to thrive.

As children grow, the library supports them through spaces like the teen mezzanine, a dedicated area that bridges the gap between childhood and adulthood. This area provides a place for relaxation, socializing, and building relationships. The mezzanine can host everything from casual meet-ups to organized events, encouraging teens to find their place in the community while fostering independence and having a place to call their own.

Each of the library’s enclosed study and meeting rooms offers a unique environment to meet the diverse needs of the community. With flexible seating options and versatile desk setups, these rooms accommodate quiet, individual study, and collaborative group work. This adaptability ensures that users of all ages and abilities can find a setting that suits their preferences.

Inclusivity is reflected further in amenities such as a family restroom with an adult changing table and a child-sized toilet. These features provide comfort and dignity for caregivers of both children and adults of different abilities, ensuring that everyone can use the facilities with ease.

The sensory room adds a layer of accessibility for nursing mothers and individuals with neurodiverse needs. The room was designed with adjustable lighting – both light level and color temperature and added acoustic separation to create a calming environment away from external distractions. Features like the soothing bubble tube and the engaging fiberoptic tactile wall support sensory engagement and relaxation. This space provides comfort, privacy, and support for those who need a quieter environment.

Grimes Public Library shows us that a library isn’t just a place for books — it’s a cornerstone of social infrastructure that enhances the quality of life, strengthens social ties, and promotes a more informed, connected, and compassionate society. By prioritizing the needs of ALL patrons, the design ensures the library is a welcoming and valuable resource for the entire community. This commitment to accessibility reinforces the power of architecture and design to foster a sense of belonging and empower everyone to learn, connect, and thrive.