Discussion of formal assessment of library facilities highlights the postoccupancy evaluation as a tool in developing accountability in the design, planning, and construction of library buildings. Assessment of existing facilities is discussed; evaluation methods are described, including behavioral mapping; and a planning outline for evaluation is…

This is the first in a projected series of articles by a library design consultant on the design of new facilities for the Calcasieu Parish (Louisiana) Library System. The overall plan for new buildings, additions, and remodeling is described; budgeting, scheduling, and background planning are discussed; and project goals are explained. (LRW)

This manual provides the steps in planning a post-occupancy evaluation of library facilities to determine how effective the designed environment is for users. Evaluating a building provides a feedback loop to the planning process and can help fine tune the building or help others. The first actions of the planners are to clarify the purpose; gain…

Describes the experiences of the Joliet Public Library Outlet (Illinois), which was opened in a mall. Highlights include rent, access to the library and increased patronage, criteria for deciding between enclosed and strip malls, other location considerations. funding, and marketing. (AEF)

Provides a description of four seminars and three study tours organized by the IFLA (International Federation of Library Associations) Section on Library Buildings and Equipment from 1980-91. Themes include interior design and layout, library buildings in the network context, adapting buildings to library use, planning and design, and control of…

A first-time project manager on a $4 million library addition and renovation project by the Homewood (Alabama) Public Library shares her experiences. Sidebars provide tips for new library project managers; description of construction administration documents; effective phrases to use with the contractor; and the top 10 lies told to a library…

The prospect of resolving a library's space and utilization problems through expansion and renovation carries with it the question of how to maintain operations during construction. Few libraries, especially those in the academic world, can afford to close their doors for very long, even though the prospect of maintaining ongoing operations amid…

Presents interviews with Fred Kent, founder of the Project for Public Spaces (PPS) and Phil Myrick, PPS's assistant vice president, about transforming libraries into desirable public spaces. Discusses qualities people value in public spaces; great library buildings and what they are doing right; the first thing library directors should do when…

Describes the Danville Public Library's (Illinois) planning and implementation of a groundbreaking ceremony and provides guidelines for the process. Highlights include early planning, the planning staff, publicity, videotaping, selecting a convenient time, decorations, invitations, knowing individual responsibilities, commemorative items, and a…

Four contributing authors discuss perspectives on current trends in library interior design. Articles include: "Trends in Library Furnishings: A Manufacturer's Perspective" (Andrea Johnson); "Libraries, Architecture, and Light: The Architect's Perspective" (Rick McCarthy); "The Library Administrator's Perspective" (Chadwick Raymond); and "The…

This collection of essays addresses the planning, construction, and operating issues relating to high-density library shelving facilities. The volume covers essential topics that address issues relating to the building, its operations, and serving the collections. It begins with an introduction by the volume's editors, "The Paradox and…

Schools that are planning to renovate, redesign, or construct a media center face many challenges. To help in these efforts, this booklet offers suggestions for planning and executing a media center project. It includes tools and resources that school personnel will need before mounting such a major project. Guidelines provided by the Library…

Discusses the ancient library at Alexandria and describes plans for the development of the new Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The administrative organization is discussed; the building design is explained; international cooperation between Egypt, UNESCO, UNDP (United Nations Development Programme), and the library community is described; and future…

Outlines the steps in the library building planning process, including (1) community, user, and staff analysis; (2) plan development; (3) design development; and (4) plan implementation. Guidelines for evaluating the architectural work as it relates to function are provided, and public self-service convenience and improved staff productivity are…

This paper presents a history of the Hiram College (Hiram, Ohio) library from 1950 to 1995. It highlights important events and decisions made in the construction and opening of the new library building on September 7, 1995 and shows how this achievement has revitalized the spirit and optimism of everyone involved. The paper also presents the…