In small branch libraries, patrons seeking assistance from library staff outside of the dedicated single-service desk often results in large staffing inefficiencies. This paper presents a case study in which the authors applied behavioral psychology models to a branch library's space arrangement to identify possible factors influencing patron…

Makerspaces provide an opportunity for libraries to build upon services they already offer while reaching out to students and faculty who do not frequent the library on a daily basis. By implementing a makerspace in the campus library, the space is seen as more neutral and approachable by students and staff from all academic departments. Broadly…

"Research Library Issues" ("RLI") focuses on current and emerging topics that are strategically important to research libraries. The articles explore issues, share information, pose critical questions, and provide examples. This issue includes the following articles: (1) Introduction (Sue Baughman); (2) An Overview of the…

Georgia Tech Library has undergone two learning space renovations in the past six years, with a third in 2009. This work is grounded in techniques that elicit user input. Library staff hope one day to completely renovate the entire 220,000-square-foot main library facility. Until that day arrives, library staff are making incremental improvements…

The reference desk at Indiana State University's (ISU) library offers an excellent view of student work areas on the first floor. From this vantage point, the reference librarians noticed students, especially in the evening and on weekends, huddled together in small groups, with one student at the keyboard of a laptop or desktop computer. The…

The formulation of a design for a library reference desk is discussed, basic planning considerations, height, and measurements of the desk, lighting and chairs, placement of the desk, prebuilt components, and evaluation. A six-item bibliography is included. (EJS)

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)

Discussion of theoretical considerations and practical factors relating to use of library reference service highlights factors involved in desk approachability--need, communication and promotion, physical arrangement of department, positioning (which gives the product a clear image communicating its purpose or use), psychological cost (personal…

For many librarians, the selection of furniture for a new building or the major refurbishing of an existing facility is a once-in-a-lifetime task. The furniture selection process now involves much more than considering what products are available. The acquisition of furniture and shelving includes the following steps: look at the existing library…

This manual presents recommendations for incorporating present and future technological changes into workable, efficient, pleasant school library media facilities in two major sections: Planning the Facility and Activity Areas. The first section addresses the planning process (appointing the building committee, evaluating the library media…

Now that fewer libraries are being built, it is particularly important to maximize space in the buildings available, and to ensure that library plans are determined by the needs of users. This book introduces the concept of space as a resource available to the library manager, along with stock, staff, and finance, which need managing in the same…