Planning Public Library Buildings: Concepts and Issues for the Librarian

by Dewe,Michael

• ISBN13: 9780754633884
• ISBN10: 0754633888
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2006-05-28
• Publisher: Routledge

Summary

Planning a new or refurbished public library means considering not only facilities for collections, services, staff and users, but examining also the local context, reviewing the library image, and developing relationships with other community facilities and agencies. The book begins with a survey of today's public library context, mission, roles, and key issues such as lifelong learning, social inclusion, community and cultural needs, regeneration and funding. It guides the librarian through the preliminary information-gathering and decision-making process that ensures a successful library building for all concerned. Comparing existing examples, the author discusses siting, size, advantages of different plans and design concepts, and weighs up the alternatives of refurbished, converted and new buildings. Separate chapters focus on the planning, briefing and construction process; security, safety and sustainability; key characteristics of successful buildings; identity, decor and signage; and interior layout and facilities. The text draws together a vast resource of real library examples from all over the world, including illustrations, which provide best practice models and lessons to learn. For funding authorities, librarians and architects of public libraries this is a highly informative book that will help to ensure wise decision-making and prevent costly mistakes.

Table of Contents

List of Figures	vii
Preface	ix
Introduction	1	(4)
Mission and roles	5	(28)
Sources of renewal and innovation	33	(32)
Service point provision, size and shape	65	(34)
`Location, location, location'	99	(34)
Alternatives to new buildings	133	(22)
Sustainability, safety, security and systems	155	(32)
Planning, design and construction	187	(30)
Key qualities in design and evaluation	217	(24)
Identity, communication and style	241	(32)
The library interior	273	(28)
Anything it needs to be?	301	(34)
Appendices
Biennial UK Public Library Building Awards, 1995 onwards	331	(2)
US Library Buildings Award Program, 1991 onwards	333	(2)
Bibliography	335	(6)
Index	341