The new St. Charles Parish East Regional Library is a 39,655 s.f. facility oriented on the site to maximize the views of the adjacent Destrehan Plantation, it's parklike grounds and the Mississippi River. It serves as a welcoming point and anchor to a proposed lifestyle center. As the entry and long facade of the building faces west, a variety of suncreens and porches help shade the glazing of the building to avoid excessive heat gain while allowing for wide window openings to the public spaces. The south and east sides of the building overlook the Plantation property and maximize the beautiful view through extensive glazing. Reading areas are set along the perimeter of the vaulted stacks area to maximize the connection to nature and create a relaxing setting for reading and studying.