The Reading Well
2023 Tiny Library Competition
Torodi, Niger
In partnership with Aarif Ahmad
The past decade has brought significant growths in the population and development of Torodi, Niger. The Niger river, although stimulating growth, is limited in its fair accessibility in the midst of rapid densification, causing distant rural communities on the outskirts to be severely disadvantaged. The Reading Well catalyzes learning through the integration of the necessity and culture of water by positioning a crucial water pump at the heart of the project, and synthesizing a need within the fabric of learning to create opportunities for educational advancement within the folds of existing cuiture. The elevation articulates openness on the ground level with brick to emphasize the power of the vault. Storage needs are met through a pull-down bookshelf module dedicated to storage; through this technology, an entire floor of space is able to store books, technology, and electricity; while simultaneously creating divisible space to meet a range of public or private needs.
The library is constantly changing — individual spaces are created by pulling a bookcase down to create a physical separation and a more personal reading nook. These bookshelves hold books and media, tools, and other resources. The water pump is available publicly for nearby residents to access. They can bring their kids to pick up a book while waiting to get water. Poetically, the water is pumped up, and the information is pulled down; these productive and perpetuating cycles created by the architecture produce the communal endurance for the Torodi people.