Project Profiles

Building Expansion Incorporates Area’s Scenic Surroundings

The addition of a maker space and recording studio also enhances the library’s offerings

The Catherine Dickson Hofman (CDH) Branch of the Warren County Public Library has welcomed the community back with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and re-opening preview of its newly renovated and expanded 9,800-SF space, which included a 5,800-SF addition. The sweeping +$7M in upgrades, designed and reimagined by DIGroup Architecture (DIG), address long-needed renovations for the county’s busiest library branch as well as enhanced offerings for northern Warren County area residents of all ages.

The event included local mayors and county officials, as well as the efforts of the county’s newly named Library Director Jill Butcher and members of the Library Commission. A special congressional recognition also commemorated the grand opening.

“DIG’s design team took inspiration for the library’s new addition from the natural landscape of the New Jersey Highlands Region,” said Paul Graebener, DIG senior project manager. “The area’s rolling hills, valleys and forests are incorporated throughout the interior, from the custom wall coverings depicting the landscape, wood circulation desk and striking exposed wood beams, to the sloping roof in the lobby, young adult and children’s areas. The addition of windows and clerestory glazing further emphasizes this connection, drawing in natural light and offering views of the scenic surroundings.”

DIG also transformed the former space with new lighting, finishes and tailored spaces such as a fireside reading area as well as new meeting rooms and a community room with a kitchenette. The addition of a maker space and recording studio also enhances the library’s offerings.

In addition to DIG, the project team included Finelli Consulting Engineers and DeSapio Construction Group.

The project, which received funding through New Jersey’s Library Construction Bond Act, reflects a commitment to rethinking the role of libraries as well as other cultural spaces across local communities. In addition to the Catherine Dickson Hofman Branch of the Warren County Public Library, DIG spearheaded the renovation of the Long Branch Free Public Library as well as two Carnegie-funded libraries in Philadelphia – the Paschalville (circa 1915) Library Branch and the Blanche A. Nixon Cobbs Creek (circa 1925) Library.