Daniella Hyslop - Libraries Change Lives Designing the Third Space

Libraries Change Lives
Designing the Third Space
thedesignconcept

“third space concept”
Libraries have a new social role as a meeting place to encourage engagement, participation and development.
They are distinctive informal gathering places
They need to be a dependable place of refuge,
They help create a sense of place and community
They should encourage sociability rather than isolation
Material should be presented in a context that tempts people to linger, relax and enjoy
They have a need to constantly evolve and stay relevant. They should reflect the variety found on the high street
They make life more colourful.

“the red thread” Hjorring Library Denmark
a physical structure at the heart of the library that twists and winds its way though the library
Not just aesthetically appealing, but acts as a communication tool for both users and staff

It mediates between zones in the library...

A meeting place,...

a quite workspace...

and a place for inspiration!

Our design objectives:
To create a “user experience” rather than just supply product
..not about repeating an idea
Needs to constantly evolve and must stay relevant – Libraries should change in line with the changes in society
Understand the specific needs of the users
Urban,.. versus City, ... versus Rural
Different groups have different requirements, therefore tailored solutions (however subtle) required

How to create the ultimate user experience:
Three vital principles in a successful outcome
The staff and their ability to deliver
Technology and the tools available to deliver the service
Where we come in - The environment..
This must inspire and enable staff and customers alike to feel like they are in a place that provides and promotes their needs, develops and informs, whatever their age
The Design Process
Stakeholder and User Engagement
Zoning and Adjacencies
Design Layout - knock normal principles on their head viz: books stock,
sightlines etc – make life easier for the customer
Incorporate bespoke elements to create focal points
Use of textures on fabric and material to take our ideas throughout – this offers continuity, cohesiveness and clarity

Finish the job! ...take things a step further with branding and graphic concepts
Why?
Adds depth and professionalism
Helps identity
Promotes core values and mission
Creates mood and tone
Gives clarity in finding information
How?
Be site specific with a unique identity
Use local knowledge bank, photos etc
Adds a local dimension – this cannot be under estimated!
Important in creating a sense of place
Can reveal heritage to new audiences and reinforce value of heritage
Can provide useful material to create a strong visual identity

The Finished Article Portobello LibraryThe first library completed in the 21st Century Refurbishment Programme in Edinburgh

Use of local history, people and landmarks giving a sense of ownership

The Finished Article Thornaby Library – Stockton on Tees

Projects to Watch out for......Harrogate Central Library, Skills Development Scotland, Longsight Library, and Elliot House Library - Manchester
Fiction this way
I want to read about..

and finally Signage ....

Daniella Hyslop - Libraries Change Lives Designing the Third Space

by EdinburghCityLibraries

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