A fresh look at the future
Bonaire Library has a vision for the future: the library as a social, educational and cultural hub. A place that promotes civic participation, digitization, self-reliance and social connection. But how this was to take shape and where the library would be located was still unclear in 2022. Together with the library team, stakeholders and islanders, includi set out to find answers. A feasibility study for two potential locations coupled with discussions with Bonaire residents of all ages made clear what conditions the new building needed to meet. It emerged that the local identity should be reflected in the interior.
The Making Of Bibliotheek Bonaire
"It is a tremendous achievement to have realized a wonderful library for Bonaire, all within the many constraints and wishes. Now, there is a library that can serve the community for years to come, one that everyone can be proud of."
"Our dream was an inclusive library where everyone can develop, a place we deserve. A community center full of opportunities that can be an inspiration to other countries and islands in the region."
Future-proof vision
Bon Bini
Creative pressure cooker
In a workshop week in 2022, we explored the requirements for the new location together with the library team, such as an area of 2,500 m2. When a temporary, smaller building of 735 m2 became available in 2024, includi was commissioned to develop the interior – within less than 12 months! In this short time frame, we organized a Design Workshop week, optimized the program of requirements, designed the plan and elaborated it technically. The interior was designed in the Netherlands and then shipped to Bonaire. This was all possible thanks to intensive cooperation with involved partners in a construction team and our enthusiastic client, Openbaar Lichaam Bonaire.
Coleur Locale Central
The colorful, locally inspired design spans two floors. Downstairs visitors find a multipurpose room with a kitchen and information desk, ideal for newspaper reading and meetings. Also located here is a kid’s place, a nice reading area for 6 to 12-year-olds and an expandable stage. Upstairs, there is a youth space with a “cave” to chill in, a multipurpose meeting room, a MakerSpace and offices.
The modular interior was shipped as a flat package and can be disassembled and reused. The materials are resistant to the marine climate. Smart and sustainable, since it is a temporary location. Wherever the library eventually takes root, it is a welcoming meeting place for all, encouraging the growth and development of the entire Bonairean community.
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The identity is colorful in every way, in terms of color, diversity and different activities.
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The colorful interior displays oiled pine in bright pastels.
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The new building has an interior that matches the distinctive elements of Bonaire, with recognizable details such as a container, prints of corals and fish, and, of course, the characteristic colors of the island.
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The modular interior was shipped as a flat package and can be disassembled and reused. Smart and sustainable, since it is a temporary location.
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"What makes this project truly special is how everything comes together - the soul of Bonaire captured during the workshop week and transformed into a community library. With Antillean roots, it also feels personal, knowing opportunities aren’t equal for everyone. I hope this place helps change that."
Discover our inclusive places
