Serving the youth of Charlotte, ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center, combining library and theater functions, is dedicated to creating an environment where visitors experience the written, spoken and electronic word in an integrated environment. Users respond to stories in multi-sensory ways, and interactive features encourage them to participate in creating their own stories. The nurturing of young people at every stage of their development to allow them to discover their individual potential and to challenge their intellect is at the heart of ImaginOn. The building is a story all its own, captivating the minds and imagination of young people and families.

As a learning facility, the building aims to build public awareness of environmental responsibility. The first LEED Silver public building in Charlotte, the center sets an example for other public buildings in the area. Natural, local, and regionally produced materials are used in conjunction with recycled-content materials. Controlled natural light reduces the need for artificial lighting. Exterior shading devices on the perimeter glass walls, in combination with the use of day-lighting, reduces energy consumption and the requirements placed on mechanical systems.