Library Space Design for Flexibility and Functionality

Library services are evolving quickly, and many times our facilities were not designed to accommodate new service types. This course will provide an overview of trends in library design, outline techniques in assessment of space needs, and present ways to reclaim and reconfigure underused space for new functions. The lasting impact of the Covid-19 pandemic will also be considered. A real-life project in the student’s library will allow the practical application of concepts learned.

Topics
Library space planning overview
User experience and Design Thinking as applied to physical spaces
Trends in library spaces, including the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic
Assessment of space needs and existing space
Practical application

Expectations: Students will watch/read weekly assignments and participate in online discussions. During the last two weeks, students will choose and assess an existing space in their library and develop a plan for reconfiguration to provide a new or changed service, with online discussion of the process and short description of the final plan.

This course was formerly called “Library Space Design in the 21st Century.”