Daily Archives: March 17, 2011

Library Design Showcase 2011: Children’s and Teen’s Spaces

March 17, 2011

Many libraries offer vibrant and fun spaces to entice children and turn them into lifelong learners. Libraries are also recognizing that teens have different needs, including technology, flexible and collaborative space, and a separate area where they can be themselves. This section highlights some of the impressive new children’s and teen’s spaces in libraries. Click … Continue reading Library Design Showcase 2011: Children’s and Teen’s Spaces


Library Design Showcase 2011: Navigation and Color

March 17, 2011

Bold signage—and more subtle cues—can help patrons find their way. These facilities use color and other techniques for both wayfinding and to create dramatic, energetic environments. Click on photos or names for more information about each library.


Library Design Showcase 2011: Sustainable Construction

March 17, 2011

The trend towards building greener continues unabated. Features like green roofs, solar panels, landscaping to manage stormwater, and certification under the United States Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program are becoming almost commonplace. Another feature that’s gaining popularity: geothermal well systems that use the relatively stable temperature of the ground … Continue reading Library Design Showcase 2011: Sustainable Construction


Library Design Showcase 2011: Material Matters

March 17, 2011

A careful choice of construction material can enhance the performance and aesthetics of a building. These facilities offer examples of how the choice of material contributes to the final product. Click on photos or names for more information about each library.


Library Design Showcase 2011: Enhanced Functionality

March 17, 2011

Not many libraries restrict themselves to offering “traditional” library services. These are examples of how buildings support innovative library programming—or how they support everyday functions in a novel way. Click on photos or names for more information about each library.