Coming Soon: A Game-Changer for Public Libraries in Southeast Michigan

If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like when a city goes all in on its future — look no further than Dearborn.

We’re thrilled to officially announce our partnership with the City of Dearborn and Dearborn Public Library on the transformation of Esper Library into the premier Children’s Exploration and STEAM Center of Southeast Michigan — a first-of-its-kind hub designed to spark imagination, hands-on learning, and wonder for an entire generation.

This isn’t your average library renovation.

This is a bold, visionary leap into what public spaces can and should be. Mayor Abdullah Hammoud laid out the vision during his 2025 State of the City address: an interactive learning destination where young minds can explore robotics, music, art, engineering, 3D printing, circuitry, and more — for free. No admission fees, no driving across the region. Just world-class opportunities, right in the neighborhood.

And here's a fun fact: after visiting the recently completed children’s area at Redford Township District Library — a project we proudly designed — Mayor Hammoud picked up the phone and called us. He saw firsthand what was possible and knew Dearborn needed an architect who could deliver something just as transformative.

We’re helping cities build more than buildings.

We’re building dreams, experiences, and futures. Our team at MCD Architects has spent over 50 years designing libraries that don’t just look good — they work hard for the people who use them. We understand what it takes to turn a big idea into a real place where kids thrive, parents feel proud, and communities grow stronger.

And this project is going to turn heads.

A sneak peek into what's coming:

• Hands-on STEAM discovery zones where kids can tinker, build, and explore

• Custom-designed exhibits that rival regional museums

• Technology-rich spaces where creativity and coding go hand-in-hand

• Recording Studio to create an opportunity for podcasts and music production

• A signature design that reflects the energy and diversity of the Dearborn community

We can’t wait to share the full designs soon — but trust us, this will quickly become a destination, one that’s already inspiring neighboring communities to raise the bar.

Dearborn is making a statement.

And we’re proud to help them do it. Because cities that invest in their public libraries aren’t just keeping up — they’re leading the way.

If you’re a municipal leader, library director, or someone dreaming about how to give your community the best of the best, now’s the time. Let’s talk about how to bring something like this to your city.

This is what the future of public space looks like. And it starts now.