Tybee Island has a year-round beach
community, and has remained a popular vacation destination for over a
century. The branch library sits on a half-acre site which fronts the
island’s main avenue and affords ocean views to the east. The site is
adjacent to Tybee’s city hall, a brick neo-Georgian structure built in
the 1950s. The library’s exterior forms, patterns and materials compliment
the city hall’s civic image. To meet flood plain regulations, the library
floor is raised 7 feet above grade. The entrance ramp becomes a major
design feature, and allows handicapped access. Twin ballcapped piers mark
the beginning of the entrance ensemble. Walking on the switchback ramp,
patrons enjoy views across Butler Avenue to the ocean. A gabled, natural-light-filled
foyer greets them at the top.
