Fort Worth’s first public library for children opens

The Reby Cary Youth Library, located in Fort Worth, Texas, celebrated its grand opening on Aug. 14. The project, named after civil rights pioneer and educator Reby Cary, is the first public library for children and youth in Fort Worth.

The $5.49 million, KAI-designed project includes activity stations, bright colors, interactive art installations, and cozy cubbies. Amenities include a large outdoor sensory garden, a maker space with technology and creative activities, and multiple study rooms. The library forgoes tall bookshelves and hardback chairs typical of traditional libraries and instead opts for lower shelving and seating designed to encourage families to read together.

The design team worked closely with artist Creative Machines to create an interactive public art installation. Dubbed “Only Connect,” the installation is suspended from the ceiling and made up of over 20,000 glass marbles and cascading LED lights. Visitors can manipulate the artwork’s lighted colors and patterns through the simple touch of a button and sensor points distributed throughout the library.

In addition to providing architectural and interior design services, KAI also coordinated the civil, landscape, structural/mechanical/electrical.plumbing engineering, fire protection, audio-visual, lighting, technology and cost estimating services through various teaming partners.

In addition to KAI, the build team also included FPI Builders as the general contractor.