Abstract

Libraries today are faced with rapidly shifting populations of users with differing needs, who require a range of new communications links that are transforming our concept of the library space. This developing role has created a set of new and complex challenges for those delivering library services. There is no such thing as the 'perfect' library building. However, a well designed building will enable a project both to gain local acceptance more easily and to ease the process of securing planning permission. It also needs to be cost effective to run, support the organization's objectives well, offer an improved service to the user and make an impact on the community. This much needed book takes as its starting point the fact that few architects know very much about libraries, and fewer librarians know about architectural planning and design. It steers a clear path for library managers through the language and processes that they need to understand as members of a team overseeing the planning of a new library building project, major refurbishment or remodelling of an existing library. Key topics of this title include: twenty-first century libraries; developing a business case; project management; the design/project team; selecting an architect; partnership and community engagement; the design brief; design quality; space planning and access; occupancy and post-occupancy evaluation; and, building libraries for the future. Appendices offer top tips and checklists, together with a glossary of common terms used within the construction environment to help further de-mystify the design process for librarians. This practical and accessible book is an invaluable guide not only for new entrants to the library profession, but also for experienced practitioners who are approaching for the first time the important task of creating a new library or major refurbishment of existing facilities. It will also be of great relevance to architects unfamiliar with library building requirements.
"Librarians from all sectors will find this a very useful introductory guide to help them get to grips with the complexities of delivering a successful outcome to a library building or refurbishment project." - Designing Libraries Newsletter
"This is a very well done book and certainly up to date with the challenges facing library managers in the twenty-first century…For as much detail as the book covers – it is an easy, quick read and a reference book for space design projects for the future." - Library Management
Ayub Khan BA(Hons) FCLIP is Head of Library and Information Services (Strategy) for Warwickshire County Council, UK. His previous role was that of Principal Project Officer (Library of Birmingham), working on plans to create a new state-of-the-art city library.