Mount Vernon’s Library Commons: The Next Chapter
On September 28, Mount Vernon celebrated the grand opening of the Mount Vernon Library Commons (MVLC), a project that brings together key elements of the city’s future. Community members, local leaders, and federal officials all gathered to mark the occasion and recognize the significance of this addition to the city.
Located at 208 W. Kincaid St., the MVLC combines a public library, community center, and transportation hub, featuring 76 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations—the largest public EV charging hub in the United States. The project is designed to address several community needs, offering a place where residents can access resources, gather, and benefit from environmentally friendly transportation options, all in one central location.
Notable Acknowledgements at the Event
Julie Blazek (left) accepts a plaque from Mayor Peter Donovan (right) on behalf of HKP Architects for their efforts in the design of the Mount Vernon Library Commons.
Julie Blazek, Partner at HKP Architects, played a critical role in the design and completion of the Library Commons. During the ribbon-cutting event, Julie shared how the building’s design focuses on efficiency and environmental responsibility. As one of the first publicly bid projects in the U.S. to pursue Passive House certification, the MVLC is 75% more energy efficient than typical buildings. This energy-saving design not only reduces long-term costs but also makes the building more comfortable and resilient for the community.
Former Mayor Jill Boudreau (left) is brought to tears by Mayor Donovan's heartfelt commemoration of her efforts in the completion of the Mount Vernon Library Commons project.
Former Mayor Jill Boudreau was also recognized for her pivotal role in making the Library Commons a reality. Mayor Peter Donovan presented her with a plaque that read “Nevertheless, she persisted,” a testament to her unwavering commitment to overcoming challenges and ensuring the project’s success. Jill’s leadership was instrumental in handling the complexities of the project, making sure it moved forward without increasing local property taxes.
The 130,000-square-foot facility offers a 20,000-square-foot library alongside a 10,000-square-foot community center equipped with a commercial kitchen. The library includes thoughtfully designed spaces for all ages, with dedicated areas for children, teens, and young adults, as well as a teen STEM center. The community center’s flexible meeting and event spaces make it a valuable resource for public and private gatherings, providing the city with a central hub for activities and events.
Environmental considerations were at the core of this project. The building’s Passive House certification ensures it consumes far less energy than traditional structures, with features like triple-pane windows, airtight construction, and high-efficiency air-to-water heat pumps. Solar panels on the roof supply up to 21% of its power, while low-carbon concrete helped reduce the overall environmental impact by over 40%. These eco-conscious efforts position the Library Commons as a model for responsible public buildings, reflecting Mount Vernon’s long-term goals for energy conservation and reduced emissions.
[Image Credits: Brendan Denslow, HKP Architects]