International District/Chinatown Branch Highlights
This library is located inside the International District Village Square II. The International District/Chinatown Branch reflects the arts and culture of the neighborhood. Community members often visit daily to socialize and read.
The branch space is leased from the Seattle Chinatown International District Preservation and Development Authority (SCIDPDA). The complex also includes 57 units of affordable family housing, a community center, retail space, and underground parking.
History
Serving the Chinatown International District (CID) community since 2005.
The CID includes Japantown (Nihonmachi), Filipinotown, and Little Saigon. It is the city's third Chinatown, developed after the Jackson Street regrade in 1908.
The International District/Chinatown Branch is a newer community space in a historic neighborhood. The community had significant input during the naming process. "International District" signals the diversity of the community while "Chinatown" honors the neighborhood's historical identity.
The branch opened on June 11, 2005 and has seating for 40 patrons. The collection has many multilingual and multimedia materials. Visitors have access to computers, study rooms, and outlets to charge their devices.
Architecture
Long hanging lamps illuminate a ceiling canopy made of ribbons of wood. The building’s design and interior reflect the weaving and layering of experiences in the community. Although it is a small branch, it offers many comfortable places to sit and read.
The building received honorable mention in 2006 by the American Library Association and International Interior Design Association.
Architects: Miller Hayashi Architects (formerly Selkirk Miller Hayashi Architects), 2005.
Art
A community art installation
The branch also includes artwork by San Francisco artist Rene Yung. Yung used teacups collected from local residents and companies to create sculptural artworks for the branch.
Named Spaces
Spaces named for donors include:
- HSBC Study Room
- Maria Lee Koh Children's Area
- Atsuhiko and Ina G. Tateuchi Reading Area