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The Changing Landscape of Libraries- Tim Leach BPD
Underlying presumption that change in library design is needed. Need to create places for people to meet, converse and COLLABORATE. Spaces need to be inspiring and uplifting and old buildings should house modern library environments. Design has to be a collaborative approach with staff, users, designers and suppliers.
- SPACE should be inspiring, accessible, intimate and communal. There should be interaction between spaces.
- FACILITIES should be flexible, adaptive, interactive.
- ACTIVITIES the design should support a 24/7 environment, need an ambiguous barrier between the library and the street.
- ENVIRONMENT needs sustainable lighting and ventilation.
- TECHNOLOGY should be present but not overwhelming, very flexible space.
- IDENTITY the library has to be personal and humane, a collective memory of identity, communal and civic.
A changing landscape means progressive facilities and traditional values.
This presentation was illuminating, it is refreshing to hear about library design from a professional who recognises the intrinsic values of the library. I was especially interested as we are thinking about the design of our library and how it can be made more welcoming and in harmony with the museum. This is difficult as it is housed in a 600 year old building which very much dictates the style- it is very beautiful but we can use the space more efficiently and be more flexible and communal.
The Great Good Place- Andrew Cranfield
Too often libraries reflect political vision. Are libraries an anachronism? We no longer have the monopoly on information. Are value adding ideas more important than collections? It is important to have a strong brand, identity and romance your user. Andrew showed examples of some of his favourite libraries:
- Idea Store a great example of BRANDING and a non-traditional style, but still traditional services.
- Library 10- Helsinki this is a small library with many users. The focus is on learning and visual communication
- Hjorring Library- Denmark A red line runs through the theatrical library bringing everything together.
Libraries Change Lives Awards
A rousing speech and moving poem from Andrew Motion followed by three very worthy projects and Leeds Libraries announced as the winner. For more info see here
