Cleo Rogers Memorial Library

Completed: 1969

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Architect: I.M. Pei and Partners

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Located: 536 Fifth Street

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Architect I. M. Pei was chosen for his total concept and his concern for the proper location of this county library. Mr. Pei felt that it should occupy a space which would be quiet yet dignified; that it be out of the flow of heavy traffic; that it be easily accessible to the great majority of people, both young and old; that its location create an area of urban space, and that it take into considerations the future growth of the community and its character.

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Mr. Pei recommened the closing of Lafayette Street between Fifth and Sixth streets to create a viable public space. This space would feature, in addition to the library and "Large Arch," the First Christian Church and bell tower and the Irwin Home. Many outdoor concerts and art shows have been presented on the plaza.

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The library building is a brick pavilion with solid walls on the east and west. The main entrance vestibule is located off center at the west end of the front of the building on Fifth Street. Long windows are deeply recessed. The coffered concrete ceiling aids in acoustical control and houses lighting, heating and ventilating equipment.

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On the main floor and mezzanine level are adult reference and curculation collections. Also available in this area are large print books, compact discs, video cassettes, magazines, newspapers, and back issues of periodicals on microfilm and microfiche. All library materials are computerized for greater efficiency.

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The children?s library is on the lower level with its own entrance to the west, but is also accessible from the main library. On the east end of the lower level is an area containing meeting rooms, kitchenette, restrooms and lobby, with an outside entrance.

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The 1987 Addition to the main level expands the Library?s capacity. Included is a special area, the Indiana Room, which houses books relating to Columbus, Bartholomew County, the State of Indiana and family history.

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"Large Arch," a major work of the English sculptor Henry Moore, stands in a brick circle on the Library plaza.

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Cited from: "Cleo Rogers Memorial Library" on the Columbus, Indiana Website

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