Apple recently opened its newest retail space in the restored Carnegie Library in Washington D.C.
The Carnegie Library was Washington D.C’s first public library and first desegregated public building. The building operated as the city’s central library until 1970. In 1999, the D.C Historical Society obtained a 99-year rent-free lease for the building. The Historical Society opened the City Museum of Washington there in 2003, but closed the museum the following year. In this new partnership with Apple, the Historical Society will remain as a tenant and occupy the second floor of the building.
The $30 million renovation project included restoring the original facade of the library, removing later additions, and introducing more natural ventilation and light into the building. The new design also included a plaza on the south entrance of the building that will be used for public programs. Along with the building, Apple also leased a portion Mount Vernon Square, a nearby urban park.
While the takeover by Apple may be a win for those interested in the preservation of the building, others are critical of the decision to turn a civic icon over to a private company. Some argue that the privatization of this once public space makes it inaccessible to many of DC’s residents. While Apple describes the Carnegie Library location as a “town square”, critics say that the space is not welcoming to those who cannot afford Apple’s products.