Seattle Public Library - public art work

One of the most interesting aspects of the new Seattle Library was the careful attention that had been given to the development of the public art for the building. Significant public buildings have 1% of the total cost of the building devoted to public art. Above the inquiry desk in the public access computer area of the library are a series of screens that are linked to the circulation system and as items are borrowed or used in the library the dewey number and title dynamically scroll aross these screens in a cloud tag. This doesn't sound like an art work but it is absolutely fascinating to see what is being used and to have it presented as a living changing art work. This was only one example of the use of the public art funding for this building.