Purposeful assessment of space for the understanding and improvement of the academic library is a relatively new area of inquiry. This essay offers a framework to consider different factors affecting such an assessment and insights for undertaking a meaningful inquiry about the relationship of space to an academic library's evolving purpose as…

Looks at what makes bookstores so successful today. Examines why exterior and interior spaces are important to libraries; how spaces support the library's mission, goals, and objectives; what libraries can learn from the retail market regarding bookstore merchandising and design; and how this information can benefit libraries. (Author/AEF)