The library, designed by architect Gould Evans, is located in a former grocery store. Its floor-to-ceiling windows decorated with metal panes are a distinctive trait. The library includes a pastry cafe, a community event space, an audio and video recording studio, a “makerspace” with 3-D printing, a gaming room, and a book store whose sales benefit the library.
Indian Creek Library manager Bob Miller expressed gratitude for the award, saying:
“We are ecstatic that Sean Zaudke and his Gould Evans design team are receiving national recognition for their beautiful creation. The Indian Creek Library is a true community gathering place, an anchor in the community where people can connect, explore, learn, and create…”
Indian Creek Library was recognized alongside over 100 new buildings from across the US. It was one of four libraries honored alongside branches in Boston, Baton Rouge, and Washington, D.C. The American Architecture Awards have been distributed since 1994, and are organized by The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design. Awards such as these can be of particular importance in fields like architecture or graphic design where artists work for large institutions.
The Indian Creek Library in Olathe opened in late October and received the American Architecture Award just a few weeks later. It is located on the east side of Olathe at 16100 W. 135th Street.