THE LIBRARY THEY CARRIED ON THEIR BACKS

TYPE: LOCATION: LIBRARY POP-UP (PROPOSED)

ROSE KENNEDY GREENWAY, CHINATOWN, BOSTON

The Chinatown community is integrally woven into this library pavilion. The pavilion physically enters the site during the lunar new year celebrations in the form of a lion, a traditional parade element brought to life by community groups. However, the lions modular pieces transform into the neighborhood’s new library, acting as tables, desk and shelves. Affixed to a static pole grid, they may enclose one-on-one tutoring, open up to become a theater, embrace exhibitions in a gallery, or fold into a dance hall.

With the pandemic closing dim sum halls and other community meeting spaces, this pavilion serves the commuters, playgrounders, street dancers, and checkers players by offering each group their own space. The community carries the library on their backs, and in return the pavilion serves their ever-changing needs.

The Chinatown community is integrally woven into this library pavilion. The pavilion physically enters the site during the lunar new year celebrations in the form of a lion, a traditional parade element brought to life by community groups. However, the lions modular pieces transform into the neighborhood’s new library, acting as tables, desk and shelves. Affixed to a static pole grid, they may enclose one-on-one tutoring, open up to become a theater, embrace exhibitions in a gallery, or fold into a dance hall.

With the pandemic closing dim sum halls and other community meeting spaces, this pavilion serves the commuters, playgrounders, street dancers, and checkers players by offering each group their own space. The community carries the library on their backs, and in return the pavilion serves their ever-changing needs.