Ascension Parish Library

Initially constructed in 1979, the existing 12,650 sq. ft. library sits on the historic site of the former Hotel Donaldson—a four-story brick and stone landmark that once anchored the city’s commercial district. The new design thoughtfully responds to this context, bringing forward a modern facility that honors the character of the neighborhood and the history beneath it.

Multistudio partnered with Ascension Parish Library to reimagine the branch as a vibrant community hub, both a future-facing library and a local museum of culture and history. The roughly 2,700-square-foot addition creates new, flexible spaces that support evolving ways of learning and gathering, designed to serve the Donaldsonville community for decades to come.

The updated program includes a maker space, a recording studio, a reimagined children’s area, adult and outdoor reading zones, a public meeting room, and a welcoming vestibule lounge with coffee service.

Together, these features expand the library’s role as an accessible destination for knowledge, exploration, and connection, fully aligned with APL’s mission to create safe and inspiring spaces for all.

Our team engaged deeply with community voices throughout the design process. Early and ongoing input came through public surveys, stakeholder meetings with library staff and board members, sessions with Parish leadership, and field studies of the existing facility. This inclusive approach helped shape a project that is not only rooted in place—but driven by the people who call it home.