What to Read When Building a Library (or, Is That a Mastodon in the Choir Loft?).

Describes the design philosophy of an architect who remodels and builds public libraries. Reviews the author's work on the Cohoes Public Library (New York) and the Saratoga Springs Public Library (New York). Discusses how architects create memorable public buildings by reading about and understanding sites, by working closely with communities, and heeding neighborhood characteristics. (JMV)