Volumes Design Library Wants to Be Portland's Creative Third Space

"It's going to be a little bit of a trial by fire to see how that all works. But I'm up for an experiment. Ellsworth's vision for the Volumes Design Library is simple: The library will host a large collection of design-focused books, magazines, and ephemera, running the gamut from graphic design to architecture to fashion. While visitors won't be able to check out materials-many are rare-guests will be encouraged to take photos or use the library's scanners."

"Ellsworth moved to Portland in the aftermath of the pandemic, taking part in the remote work revolution. Prior to 2020's shut down, Civilization hosted an annual lecture series, bringing designers from around the world to speak at the Seattle Public Library. Ellsworth got involved with the Kemeny Lecture Series hosted by the Portland State University graphic design program as a way to get out in the world and socialize with other creative, design-minded people."

"An avid collector of design books and magazines, Ellsworth said he has long dreamt of opening a dedicated design library. When he discovered an airy, window-lined space on the second floor of downtown Portland's historic J.K. Gill Building was available, the pieces started to fall into place."

Michael Ellsworth, co-founder of Seattle-based design studio Civilization, is launching Volumes Design Library in downtown Portland this spring. The library will house an extensive collection of design-focused materials spanning graphic design, architecture, and fashion. Unlike traditional libraries, Volumes encourages visitor interaction and conversation rather than silence. Materials cannot be checked out due to their rarity, but guests can photograph items or use on-site scanners. Ellsworth relocated to Portland during the pandemic's remote work shift and became involved with Portland State University's graphic design program. He views the library as an extension of his mission to democratize design and foster community among creative professionals. The library will occupy a second-floor space in downtown Portland's historic J.K. Gill Building.

Read at Portland Mercury