Transformation of disused store into cutting-edge library wins acclaim

The remarkable transformation of an old Hy-Vee grocery store into the new Indian Creek Library in the Kansas City area has garnered widespread praise, and this July, it won a Capstone Award. Group 4 and our design partner Gould Evans are delighted that Olathe Public Library’s newest branch has been honored with this award.

Indian Creek Library stands out as an example of successful adaptive reuse. It is difficult to recognize the former grocery store with the new glass façade and dazzling steel sun shade. Inside, skylights and clerestories amplify the natural light, creating a bright, airy community hub where visitors want to linger. The revitalized 46,000-square-foot building features everything a library visitor could wish for – from cozy reading areas to a cutting-edge maker space and café. Flexible technology infrastructure allows the library to easily adapt to future changes, while RFID and automatic materials handling systems enable staff to focus on serving visitors rather than sorting books

This dramatic conversion has been a boon for Olathe residents. Since the Indian Creek Library opened back in October, it has been providing a wide array of valuable community services ranging from storytimes and finance lessons to laser fabrication and other craft activities. Recently, it has even been functioning as a cooling center during hot summer weather.

The Indian Creek Library is the first project implemented as part of Olathe Public Library’s master plan, developed by Group 4. We look forward to continuing our long-range partnership with the City, working to improve library services for all Olathe residents.

Read more about Indian Creek Library’s backstory here, or see more pictures of the library’s popular attractions and innovative details here. Congratulations to the City of Olathe and the Olathe Public Library on the award!