Longgang Library (Taoyuan Public Library Longgang Branch) Introduction
Incorporating the concept of "organic" into architecture, allowing wind, light, water, and greenery to respond to urban dwellers' yearning for nature, is the philosophy behind the design of Longgang Library by architect Lu Jun-Ting (CTLU Architect & Associates). The return to nature in daily life can be felt when walking along Section 4 of Zhongshan East Road, passing through the tangled banyan tree tunnel and the green slopes of Taiwan Trade Park. This library, ranked as "the most beautiful in Taiwan," has a minimalist shape resembling a giant book, with large blank wall surfaces creating an art gallery-like visual quality, inviting travelers to participate in an artistic feast before stepping into an imaginative world of text. Upon entering the library's lobby, the eye is inevitably drawn to the interwoven curves of the 8-meter high ceiling and the abundant wooden elements in the space, prompting a slowdown in pace to enjoy the tranquil leisure reminiscent of reading beneath a tree. The corner staircase is adorned with multilingual conversations in Burmese, Thai, and Vietnamese, adding some fun to the ascent while showcasing the rich cultural diversity of Longgang. The children's reading area on the second floor continues the natural vibe with cedar and oak, and the streamlined design of the seating area infuses a sense of liveliness into the space, guiding readers to unlock their imagination and step into the enchanting world of words. This floor plans for a children's story house, providing a comfortable shared reading space for parents and children. The third and fourth floors respectively house the library's main collection area and self-study reading room. In contrast to the playful architectural vocabulary of the second floor, the original wooden texture combined with exposed concrete exudes a simple and intellectual quality. The large window design blurs the boundaries between the building and the outdoor greenery, while the abundant light makes every corner of the library suitable for reading. In addition to emphasizing interaction with the surrounding environment in spatial planning, the library is equipped with a rainwater recycling system, solar panels, and various green building materials, and has received Diamond-level Green Building Certification.
