PARSONSBURG, MARYLAND – Wicomico Public Library’s new Lewis R. Riley Library branch in Parsonsburg has received an Excellence in Construction Award from the Associated Builders and Contractors Chesapeake Shores Chapter. The award recognizes the transformation of a former commercial building into a modern library space serving Eastern Wicomico County. Gillis Gilkerson acted as general contractor and submitted the project for consideration in the Renovation: $500,000 to $2 Million category, highlighting the craftsmanship, coordination and problem-solving required to complete the adaptive reuse project.
The renovation began with a full gut of a building that was originally part of the Otis Feed Company. Once demolition was underway, the team discovered that the foundation lacked sub-footings and rested only on a concrete slab on grade. To stabilize the structure, the project team worked closely with the architect, structural engineers and subcontractors to install a carefully sequenced system of sub-footings. This work stabilized the structure and supported the steel framing needed for the building’s distinctive roofline. The roof design required precise alignment between standard trusses and off-centered girder and scissor trusses, creating a secondary ridgeline with a 21-degree pitch. The result is a dramatic vaulted interior filled with natural light from circular gable windows.
The design, created by David D. Quillin Architecture, uses the high ridge and the vaulted ceiling as a central focal feature for the library and a means to emphasize a connection to rural farmland, and the natural world. From the outside, the exposed fastener roof adds character and historic charm, connecting to a covered front porch. Inside, the vault creates a spacious feeling over the bookstacks, with hexagonal recycled-cork acoustical tiles arranged in a showstopping pattern. Large storefront windows create visual connections to the outdoors, and a silo-inspired rain barrel irrigates a rain garden along the back patio, overlooking a farmland vista. Sophisticated lighting and HVAC systems mirror the shapes found elsewhere in the design and create a sustainable, high-quality and thoughtfully designed space that will serve area residents for years to come.
Wicomico Public Library Executive Director Seth Hershberger accepted the award alongside Gillis Gilkerson President Tyler Barnes, and Project Manager Don Murray, who also acted as Superintendent for the build.