Gunnison County Library

Gazing through a telescope at the vast night sky is just one of the many unique experiences offered at the new Gunnison County Public Library, a modern, community-rooted destination nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

Located at an elevation of 7,700 feet in the tight-knit mountain town of Gunnison—fondly referred to as “Gunni” by locals—the library reflects the values, vision, and spirit of its people.

Anderson Hallas Architects led an inclusive planning and design process that brought together hundreds of Gunni residents through community events, workshops, activities, and presentations. This extensive engagement resulted in strong consensus around a shared vision, culminating in a successful ballot initiative that made the library a reality. The result is a facility that not only embodies the community’s priorities but also sets a new standard for public infrastructure in rural mountain towns.

Sitting along a popular bike path, with local schools to the east and preserved open space to the west, the library is thoughtfully woven into the fabric of daily life in Gunnison. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by sweeping views of the Gunnison Valley through expansive glass windows, while flexible indoor and outdoor gathering spaces foster creativity, connection, and lifelong learning.

Beyond its community-centric design, the library sets a high bar for sustainability and performance - the building incorporates solar and geothermal technologies—a forward-thinking approach that supports energy efficiency and environmental resilience. It not only meets but exceeds energy performance goals, achieving an Energy Use Intensity (EUI) of less than 30—demonstrating Gunnison’s commitment to a resilient, future-forward public facility.

Awards:
Colorado Honor Awards (2023), Honorable Mention