Multnomah County Libraries
Watson partnered with PacificWRO and several design firms to support the ambitious transformation of the Multnomah County Library system. With over 10 projects completed and just as many to come, the library refresh focused on accessibility, durability, and public safety—all with a future-ready lens. To date, Watson products are installed in nearly half the system’s branches, including standout projects like Midland, Holgate, and Hillsdale.
- Client: Multnomah County Libraries
- Dealer Partner: PacificWRO
- Number of Locations: 9 branches completed as of 2025, part of a larger 19 branch project
- Watson Products Used: Tonic Work Table, Haven Laptop Table, Haven Recharge Bench
Design Challenges & Solutions
- ADA Compliance & Accessibility:
The libraries required clearances for accessible computing stations, which Watson’s Tonic tables natively support. To meet strict specifications, our team of designers and engineers worked hand-in-hand with our clients to modify the products to push legs outward and reconfigured spacing between elements.
- Cable Management & Public Safety:
Libraries needed secure, tamper-resistant power and data solutions for public computing. Watson integrated:
- Monitor grommets with brush-lined pass-throughs
- Custom cable trays compatible customer-selected locks
- Anchored table towers for added security
Why It Matters
These library spaces serve thousands of diverse users every day. The Multnomah project isn’t just about desks and tables—it’s about public trust. Watson’s adaptable, durable, and safety-conscious products help create environments where everyone can work, learn, and connect.
“It’s rare to be part of a public project that’s this expansive, with such a clear sense of purpose. Every element—down to the grommet placement—was about making these libraries safer, more inclusive, and more functional for the community. It’s been incredible to see how our products can flex to meet those needs across so many different spaces.”
- Watson Account Manager, Rachael Schweizer
