A key area of debate within the public and academic library sectors across the world is use of physical space. Changing ideas about what a library should be, coupled with the growth of digital collections, has raised fundamental questions about how library buildings are used and the role of space in library services. Alongside these drivers is the…

Presents a discussion of library facility design with regard to storage needs, readers' needs, and staff needs, with emphasis on lighting, space, and movement paths (galleries, corridors, foyers, halls, arcades). Illustrative material is provided. (EJS)

Re-examines seven major public library central facilities that were built or renovated in the past six years, including Chicago (Illinois), Los Angeles (California), Denver (Colorado), Phoenix (Arizona), San Antonio (Texas) and Vancouver (British Columbia). Topics include coping with crowds; new uses for the libraries; reorganization of space;…

Provides a blueprint of details to consider and actions to undertake when planning and moving a library. It examines space needs, spatial design elements, requirements for reader stations, collections, and new technology; provides suggestions for master planning and siting; and gives tips on how to successfully move into a new facility. (Contains…

Klasing discusses the inability of school library facilities to meet current challenges for the delivery of programs and information. Callison then provides an overview of this issue on planning learning environments for school media centers, which contains four articles covering space requirements, ergonomic design, legislation on equal access,…

A survey of the present service and future needs of the Whitby Public Library in Ontario, Canada was undertaken, and a new library building was planned. Part I describes the historical background of Whitby, the role of the present library in local history, the growth of the Town of Whitby from a population of 2,300 to 20,000, and the philosophy on…