Social Seating for the
21st Century Library
Using furniture to transform the modern public library into a valid
Third Place for social interaction.
Duncan McKean / May 2009 / 05975465 / 6980 words

“Are you sitting comfortably? Then I’ll
begin.”
V, V for Vendetta by Alan Moore

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4

“Being around people with whom you feel
a connection, on many levels, not just a
professional one, is very relaxing.”
Jacqueline Bisset
5

6

Executive Summary
What place, if any, does a library have in the 21st Century? This
report is a creative exploration containing the sum of six months
design work distilled and laid out as a clear story of the project
from research to the final concept.
Through interviews, filmed observations and questionnaires
unique insights were discovered. People really valued a library
whether they used it or not. People need their own Third Place.
That is, a place that is not home (first place), nor work (second
place).
The design brief captured the idea of using the free and public
space that the library provides as a Third Place for people to use in
the same way that people use coffee shops or bars.
How could seating affect this Third Place? How it could be an aid
to conversation, increase social communication and somehow
replicate the essence of the Third Place that other, more beverage-
orientated places, try to achieve?
Transferring the campfire metaphor and the associated story-telling
connotations to the library created a system of social seating with a
focus on heat and casual conversation.
The result is Huddle.
7

1 2 3
Introduction Research Idea
Generation
1.1 Project Inspiration 12 2.1 Research Strategy 21 3.1 Exploring the Idea 45
2.2 Secondary Research 22 3.2 Library Components 46
2.3 Primary Research 23 3.3 Soul of a Library 50
2.4 Expert Interviews 26 3.4 Portraying Information 52
2.5 User Observations 28 3.5 Concepting Day 54
2.6 Questionnaire 1 32 3.6 The Third Place 60
2.7 Questionnaire 2 34 3.7 Concept Directions 62
2.8 Two Observations 36 3.8 Idea Evaluation 64
2.9 Insights / Opportunities 38 3.9 Updated Top-line-brief 65
2.10 Opportunity Selection 40 3.10 Stakeholder Map 67
2.11 Initial Top-line-brief 41
8

4 5
Concept Development Appendix
Generation + Validation
4.1 Statement of Needs 71 5.1 Design Development 92 A: Bibliography 120
4.2 Concept: Tetris 74 5.2 Ergonomics 95 B: Questionnaire 1 122
4.3 Concept: +one 75 5.3 Suggested Layout 96 C: Questionnaire 2 124
4.4 Concept: Samovar 78 5.4 Materials 97 D: Concept Statements 125
4.5 Concept: Pools 80 5.5 Electronics 99 E: Screening Matrices 129
4.6 Concept: Touchy-Feely 81 5.6 Costing 102 F: Initial Top-line-brief 133
4.7 Concept: Huddle 82 5.7 Competitor Analyis 104 G: Full Design Brief 136
4.8 Concept Evaluation 84 5.8 Concept Validation 106 H: Meeting Records 139
4.9 Concept Summary 88 5.9 Brand Platform 112
5.10 Further Development 114
5.11 Summary 117
9

10

Introduction
1 11

This project was inspired by two articles, one
from the Independent newspaper (Savage,
2008), which laid out a fairly gloomy prediction
for the future of libraries: book borrowing had
fallen by 34% over the last 10 years (Chartered
Institute of Public Finance and Accountability,
2008) and as a result of low attendance, 40
libraries were closed throughout 2007 (Savage,
2008).
The other article was a Government report
that said 87% of respondents to a public
consultation about local library closures said
that the closure of a local library would affect
them greatly (Buckinghamshire City Council
Government report, 2006).
The idea that people still held libraries in such
high esteem even though they did not seem
to use them indicated that there is a future for
libraries in the 21st Century, although it might
not be as a repository for knowledge.
This project looked at these 21st Century
libraries and based on research provides an
alternative viewpoint to what a library should
represent.
Existing solutions to increase footfall include
the following libraries that have developed their
services and re-invented their purpose:
12

Winchester Library
Conference rooms
Art gallery
Specially designed children’s area
Bold branding
Renamed as a ‘Discovery Centre’
13

14

Norwich and
Norfolk Millennium
Library
Heritage centre
Community information
Computer/console games
Regular drop-in events: teenage and
child reading groups, writing workshops,
Internet and learning workshops
15

16

Handsworth Library,
Birmingham
Refurbished in line with suggestions
from local people
Provides flexible space for events,
activities and workshops
Provides performance space for artists,
musicians and storytellers
17

18

Research
2 19

“We need to move on from the
perception of libraries as merely
depositories for books...”
John Rouse, Chief Executive of CABE
20

2.1 Research Strategy
Shadowing two different library users
Duncan Iraci
Secondary Research Angharad Williams
Journals, eg. Public
Library Journal
Primary Research
Observing
Online, e.g. Office of
National Statistics, Experience
www.statistics.gov.uk Services Insights and
Surveys Opportunities
Expert
Government Reports, Interviews
e.g. Audit Commission,
Building Better Library
Services
Newspaper and Magazine Library Usage, 50 replies
Articles, e.g. The Bookseller Expectations of ‘Third Place’, 14 replies
Stuart Taylor, Librarian & Historian
Val O’Sullivan, Children’s Librarian
Helen Carpenter, Librarian and Director of WTYL
This diagram explains the research strategy The primary research led to insights and then
undertaken. Secondary research was done first opportunities. This was evolved into concepts
to understand the context and area. Primary and a design brief.
research was then undertaken to provide unique
insights that were not available through the
public domain.
21

2.2 Secondary Research
Secondary research provided several findings, 3 People still believe that libraries should be at the
key ones: centre of a community: “The growing recognition of
Third Places in relation to social capital and community
Everybody has an opinion on how a library cohesion suggests an appropriate role for the public
should behave: “Attempts to replace a local library library movement seeking to reaffirm its place in the
with a mobile library service at Avonmouth were met network society.” (Harris, 2003)
with very strong local resistance.” (IDeA peer review,
2004) For a full list of secondary research, please see
the bibliography in Appendix A.
What a library used to be and what a library
should do now has changed drastically: John
Rouse, Chief Executive of the Commission for
Architecture and the Built Environment (Cabe)
states: “We need to move on from the perception of
libraries as merely depositories for books and look at
how new library buildings which adopt the best in design
and innovation can revolutionise people’s experiences of
library services.” (Wainwright, 2003)
22

2.3 Primary Research
Primary research was particularly important to The following primary research was
gain original insights. It was necessary to know undertaken:
more about an actual library-user’s experiences;
to ask questions to librarians, library-users, and » Three expert interviews
people who did not use libraries; to learn about » Personal user experience and observations
community and to experience a Third Place » Shadowing two service user experiences
firsthand. » Questionnaire* sent to a sample of the public
representing different demographics in terms
of age, geography and interests questioning
library habits and experiences (if any).
Received and analysed 50 replies.
» Second questionnaire* sent to smaller
sample of the public representing different
demographics in terms of age, geography
and interests questioning expectations of a
Third Place. Received and analysed 14 replies.
*Samples of questionnaires and responses are available in Appendix B and C.
23

“The growing recognition of Third Places
in relation to social capital and community
cohesion suggests an appropriate role for the
public library movement seeking to reaffirm
its place in the network society.”
Harris, K. (2003) Your Third Place or mine? Public library
and local communities.
24

To get an understanding of the research area and
empathy with the research group, it was necessary
for me to experience the library myself. This was
achieved in several different libraries across the
city on a numerous number of occasions.
As a user myself, the following insights emerged:
» Books that you want are never there.
» You cannot leave your posessions alone as
they will probably get stolen.
» Very few libraries have public toilets.
» The staff mostly seems to deal with public
computers that do not work.
25

2.4 Expert Interviews
Method: email correspondence backed
up with telephone calls.
Findings
Val categorises visitors into: browsers,
seekers, internetters, parents bonding
with children, self-educators.
Books are chosen by a stock team of
librarians.
On the role of libraries in a community:
“Libraries do have a role and strive
to have a bigger role. They are often The OCLC Environmental Scan
the ‘tourist information point’ for “Library Landscape” adds to this by
even the smallest village. They also stating “amongst the many new roles
provide a means for a community to that libraries are assuming is the
share with each other information, role of library as community centre.
facilities and services. They are now Not just warehouses of content, they
also seeking to provide ‘soft learning’ are social assembly places…” (OCLC,
opportunities with short courses and 2003)
workshops.”
One of the barriers to libraries is lack of Outcomes from Questionnaire 1 also
awareness of services on offer. help validate this finding.
Secondary research supports this: “...
libraries also need to market and
promote themselves better to lapsed
and non-users.” (MORI, 2002)
Outcomes
Libraries are in a unique position within the
community.
Libraries do not promote their services clearly.
26

Helen’s report (Carpenter, 2007)
supports this as does ‘Public library
services to refugees and asylum seekers
in the northeast’ (MacDonald and Kane,
2005). See also welcometoyourlibrary.
org.uk
On libraries as a Third Place: “…how it
is being used for positive interaction
between people, connecting the people
and the resources the library holds in
a way that enriches lives…”
Method: email correspondence only. The above finding is validated by a
quote from a report on libraries as a
Findings Third Place: “The growing recognition
of Third Places in relation to social
Asylum Seekers are told to go to capital and community cohesion
libraries, as they are a ‘safe place’ that suggests and appropriate role for the
is not home where they can learn about public library movement seeking
the community and feel included. to reaffirm its place in the network
society.” (Harris, 2003)
Outcomes
Libraries are in a unique position within the
community.
Asylum Seekers and Refugees use libraries as
a Third Place where they can learn about the
community and feel included.
27

Method: 2.5-hour semi-structured
exploratory interview in Gloucester
Road library.
Findings
Stuart categorizes visitors into: book
droppers, nosers, need-helpers, paper
readers, browsers, non-interactives.
Books are chosen by a stock team of
Supporting Quote: “That’s what
librarians.
libraries are about. At the moment
that we persuade a child, any child,
Secondary research supports this: “To
to cross that threshold, that magic
reverse the decline in use... library
threshold into a library, we change
services need to buy more of the books
their lives forever, for the better. It’s
people want.”(Audit Commission,
an enormous force for good.” Barack
2002)
Obama, American Library Association
(ALA) Annual Conference in Chicago
He participates in BookStart, which
Keynote Speech, June 23, 2005.
encourages children to read early from
an early age.
Outcomes
Could members of the public choose the books
that go into their library?
It is important to get children interested in
reading from an early age to get them to visit
libraries.
28

2.5 User Observations
Findings
: “That’s where I
Angharad is a lurker
hide.”
y to her. The
Services are secondar
is a place that is
space is important. It
Angharad Williams,
not home, nor work.
Charity Worker
“Most needed
Secondary Support:
es’ which lend
are those ‘Third Plac
e increased
a public balance to th
e life. Third
privatization of hom
ore than
Places are nothing m
ering places.
informal public gath
aces’ derives
The phrase ‘Third Pl
r homes to
from considering ou
in our lives,
be the ‘first’ places
Angharad casually sitting near the ‘second.’”
and our work places
shelves whilst reading. (Oldenburg, 1989)
Outcomes
Need for a Third Place within the community.
Browsing through the co
mpact
discs.
29

Findings
er: “I used to
Duncan is a lapsed us
d then when
come all the time an
rary was not
I changed jobs the lib
me.”
longer on my way ho
Duncan Iraci, rvices the
Designer No idea about what se
central library had.
Duncan asking questions
to the
library staff.
Duncan deciding on which DVD
box set to take out.
Outcomes
Libraries do not promote their services clearly.
Browsing through the co
mpact
discs.
30

“Most needed are those ‘Third Places’ which lend a
public balance to the increased privatization of home
life. Third Places are nothing more than informal
public gathering places. The phrase ‘Third Places’
derives from considering our homes to be the ‘first’
places in our lives, and our work places the ‘second.’”
(Oldenburg, 1989)
31

2.6 Questionnaire 1
To see what public opinion was on a series “Free wifi” Clemency Evans, Web Design Agency
of questions about public libraries, an email Director, Bristol.
questionnaire was sent out. A summary of
relevant findings is below. “Wide choice of DVD’s to borrow (especially foreign…)”
Hélène Duranton, University Foreign Language
A questionnaire including sample response is Manager.
available in Appendix B.
“Working space” Neil Ferguson, Design Festival
Findings
Director
Library is identified as a community space.
» People claim that if certain services were Darren Wells, Occultist: “It is a resource that serves
available it might entice them to go to the the local community.”
library more. They already have those
services. Britain is also getting lonelier in the last 30 years
(Easton, 2008) and so a community space would
Dave Wyatt, Graphic Designer, Bristol. “Possibly be a great tool against this trend getting any
a simple Internet site that tells you whether they have worse.
the book available or not.”
Chris Anthony, Student Union Staff Member,
UWE: “if they rented DVD’s”
32

Outcomes
Libraries do not promote their services clearly.
Everybody has an opinion about what a library
should be whether he or she goes or not.
Libraries are in a unique position within the
community.
33

2.7 Questionnaire 2
To see what public opinion was on a series When Ray Oldenburg published his work The
of questions about ‘Third Places’, an email Great Good Place (1989) on ‘the Third Place’ he
questionnaire was sent out. A summary of did not put forward libraries as example of this
relevant findings is below. place that was not home and was not work.
According to the results of this questionnaire, a
A questionnaire including sample response is library would be a perfect community space.
available in Appendix C.
“Life without community has produced, for many,
Findings
a life style consisting mainly of a home-to-work-and-
back-again shuttle. Social well-being and psychological
health depend upon community. It is no coincidence
60% of respondents would pay up to £1 per day that the ‘helping professions’ became a major industry
for access to this Third Place. in the United States as suburban planning helped
destroy local public life and the community support it
90% of respondents would use this place to de- once lent.” (Oldenburg, 1989)
stress and meet up with friends.
90% of respondents agree that a Third Place
would be beneficial to the community.
34

Outcomes
Libraries can be considered as a valid Third
Place.
Libraries are in a unique position within the
community.
35

2.8 Two Observations
Piece of graffiti found on the side of a building in Could the public library be the soul of the local
Stoke’s Croft, Bristol. community?
36

With the closure of Bristol North Swimming Most of the public wanted was either a library or
Pool the local community created a piece of art a place to relax away from work and home.
that invited the rest of the community to raise
awareness to the council what they would like
done with the space.
37

2.9 Insights and Opportunities
Insight: If you study at a library you cannot Opportunity: Design a service that helps
leave your working area without risk of your marginalised groups (asylum seekers,
possessions being stolen. unemployed, etc) integrate into the community.
Insight: People claim that certain services were
Opportunity: Protecting personal possessions available it might entice them to go to the library
whilst away from them in a library. more. They already have those services.
Opportunity: Better ways of informing the public
of library services.
Insight: “People have a strong opinion about what
their local public library should be like whether they go
or not.”
Insight: People who are subjected to libraries
Opportunity: To engage the local community in at a young age usually stay faithful to libraries
defining their library in a way they will use. throughout their lives.
Opportunity: Make libraries more accessible to
parents with children to help development and
Insight: Refugees and Asylum Seekers are told socializing.
to go to local libraries as ‘safe places’ that are
not home where they can feel included and learn
about the community.
38

Insight: “…public libraries are in a unique position
in offering space in communities.”
Opportunity: To develop the library as a
genuine alternative community ‘Third Place’ to
go to other than work or home.
Opportunity: To create a library that reflects
and benefits the community it serves.
39

2.10 Opportunity Selection
Concepts statements for all of the previous
opportunities can be found in Appendix D.
Each of these concept statements has been evaluated
against each other using the selection matrix (see
Appendix E).
Although close, the result is the opportunity to
develop the library into a valid Third Place.
40

2.11 Initial Top-line-brief
This is the first top-line-brief. Due to emergent to invest and engage with this Third Place
needs discovered later in the design process, they would be more likely use other facilities
another draft of the top-line-brief was created there.
before the full brief was written. Below are the
key points from this first top-line-brief which can » If this engagement reflected each user then
be found in Appendix F: this could reflect the community as a whole
and facilitate a community network for users
Opportunity
and visitors.
A product / service that engages the local Product / Service
Outline Description
community to help create a valid Third
Place used by, benefitting and reflecting that
community.
» The product / service will give users the
Idea opportunity to personalise their experience
of the Third Place in an innovative way.
» The library can be considered as a viable » These “personalisations” should create a
Third Place for the local community to use. strong sense of personal investment and
facilitate interaction between community
» If the local community had an opportunity members.
41

42

Idea
Generation
3 43

44

3.1 Exploring the Idea
Specific research then took place exploring how
people could invest in a library if this was a Third
Place. The aim was to identify how people could
react to the library, in what ways and how this
reaction could be visualized.
The first thing to do was to experience as many
different libraries as possible. The project only
looked at urban libraries in this context and as
a result only public libraries within the City of
Bristol.
These included Bristol Central, Avonmouth,
Clifton, Bedminster, Filton, Redland and
Cheltenham Road to name but a few.
The main points that were looked at are on the
following pages including a few key points revealed
through this examination.
45

3.2 Components of a Library
46

When comparing a range of different Bristol-
based libraries it was interesting to note that they
seemed to be created from the same mould and
had a lot in common with each other:
» Ways of portraying what’s on information
» Books, computers & resources
» A free, warm, public space
Yet each library is different in character and
feeling; partly based on the location and the
content, but probably more importantly it is the
people that give each library its soul.
47

» Bristol Central
» Bedminster
48

» Hartcliffe
» Knowle
49

3.3 The Soul of a Library?
Soul (n) The immaterial part of a person that
consists of thoughts and personality.
Personality (n) Dynamic and organized set of
characteristics possessed by a person that uniquely
influences cognitions, motivations and behaviours
(Ryckman, 2007)
50

Therefore, to create the soul of a library:
get a range of dynamic and organized set of
characteristics, then get the community to
choose them.
51

3.4 Ways of Portraying Information
» Chernoff Faces
52

If individuals have a way of interacting or
expressing themselves in a way that could be
read by other members of the community, it
would have to be
» Simple to express
» Simple to understand
» Be closed to abuse
53

3.5 Concepting Day
Concepting day was dedicated to the quick
generation of a pool of ideas from which to draw
inspiration.
Relevant outcomes were as follows:
» Ways of bringing people together: community
area, shared seating, meeting place, shared
interests, need to be inclusive
» Senses: users generating soundscapes, light
tree that people can sit around,
» Emotional investment: just be being in a place
is an investment
» Give the place sentimental value by sharing
the library experience
54

55

56

57

The final process was generating headings that
represent the overview of the project; the adding
associated words to the headings. Key phrases
were marked out and applied as benchmarks
throughout the project:
» Informal public life
58

» Relax and Socialise
» Everybody loves a fire
» Sense of place
59

3.6 Dissection of the Third Place
A Third Place--as mentioned before--is a place a Third Place where people can go and meet and
that is not home nor work. Examples of Third socialise as it is the people, not the place that
Places in today’s society would be: make it.
» Coffeeshops According to The Great Good Place (Oldenberg,
» Pubs and bars 1989) three of the main requisites of a Third Place
» Protected street corners are conversation, a sense of playfulness and the
» Bookshops comfort and warmth that a home has.
» Garden centres
» Print shops It is these three ideas that the project focussed
on.
Starbucks even has the tag-line ‘the Third
Place’.
There is no reason why a library can be used as
60

“A place that does not
reduce a human being to
a mere customer”.
61

3.7 Concept Directions
Exploration of the idea concluded with three
possible options for concept development:
» Some form of Community generated
sculpture.
62

» A civic engagement service that uses the
community to help develop the services that
the community might need.
» Social seating for an informal gathering place.
63

3.8 Idea Evaluation
Out of the three directions, the social seating These emergent needs meant that the top-line-
concept was carried forward for the following brief had to be changed to include the most
reasons: important criteria of a Third Place: conversation
and a sense of playfulness.
» The project was looking at turning the library
into a Third Place. This concept was in line
with the strongest insight and opportunity.
» The exploration of a community driven
sculpture did not seem relevant to the library
as a Third Place.
The social seating were more in line with the
characteristics of a Third Place than with a
service platform or a community sculpture.
64

3.9 Updated Top-line-brief
The full design brief are available in Appendix » Current library users
G. » Lapsed library users
» Non-library users
»
Opportunity
Vulnerable sections of society
» Tourists and people new to the area
» Local councils that run the libraries
A product that facilitates the 21st century
library into becoming a valid Third Place.
Consumer/Customer
Idea /User Benefits
» The library can be considered as a viable » Will create a Third Place where people can
Third Place for the local community to use. go that is not work or home.
» If the local community had an opportunity to » Help introduce beneficial library services to a
engage with this Third Place they would be new audience.
more likely use other facilities there.
» Will make people feel part of a community.
Product Outline User Needs
Description The product must:
» The product will give users the opportunity to
experience this Third Place in an innovative » Allow the user to interact with product in an
way. engaging or provocative way.
» This experience should facilitate interaction » Facilitate community networking.
between community members.
» Give the Third Place a sense of identity.
Target Market The product should:
The market can be segmented into the following » Be free to use.
groups:
» Be intuitive to use so no handholding
65

required.
Assumptions
» Can be used by ages 8-80.
» Currently there is no cost limitation to
» Can be interacted with in a visually develop product.
stimulating way.
» It is valuable to target several market segments
» Give the ‘Cheers’ feeling: where everybody instead of targeting a narrow segment because
knows your name. as a community third space it should serve
the whole community.
Likely features and
technology Technical expertise
» required
Some form of social seating.
» Product likely to contain electrical parts. » Ergonomic consideration around seating.
» Product likely to contain electronic parts.
Development issues
and challenges Limitations
» Product must not be a ‘use once’ novelty. The scope of this product is purposefully broad
at this stage, however it is limited by/to the
» Ability to appeal to a lot of different target following:
markets.
» Public libraries.
» Product must conform to any relevant
standards. » The community being ‘local’ to the library
as defined by current local authority library
» Ergonomic considerations to touchpoint. catchment areas.
» Additional considerations might be required
for certain target segments such as vulnerable
users.
66

Stakeholder Map
This chart shows the ‘players’ that could be
involved or have a vested interest in this project.
They have been categorised into groups in order
to give a sense of hierarchy and relevance.
67

68

Concept
Generation
4 69

The following concepts are taken directly from
the accompanying process book. This book shows
the full development of the final chosen concept
from initial design explorations through several
key stages.
These key stages have been identified and put into
this report. Although these key stages are separate
concepts in their own right, they all show aspects
of development that contributed to the final,
chosen concept.
In order to maintain a consistent design direction
in concept generation a statement of needs was
created. This allows the concept development
to be guided by a set of key statements that will
be used as a checklist to weight the quality of
concepts against each other. The statement should
also validate why the final concept was chosen.
70

4.1 Statement of Needs
Primary research shows that a library can be a
valid Third Place. Research also shows that this
will increase the use of other services within the
library.
The two most important ingredients of a Third
Place are conversation and a sense of playfulness.
These ingredients help towards the psychology of
comfort and support of the place.
Therefore, a form of seating specific to libraries;
» Should suggest comfort and support
» Should facilitate social interaction between
people
» Should reflect the environment it is in
» Could create a ‘signature’ to represent the
environment
» Should be inclusive
» Should have a relevant focal point
71

The first thing to help generate concepts was
to be inspired. All forms of seating, including
chairs, stools and leaning rests were explored
and analysed. Out of these explorations
came the first swathe of concepts based
around the idea of ‘a form of seating that aids
conversation.’
72

73

4.2 Concept: Tetris
The concept is inspired by Tetris blocks. These
blocks were originally based on the letters I L J
O S T and Z.
This seating is created by placing the soft foam
of tetris blocks on top of each other. Since
each block is only 250mm high, at least two
block will have to be placed upon each other to
create the ergonomically correct seat height of
500mm.
74

4.3 Concept: +one
A selection of modular stools and chairs that
can be plugged into each other to generate more
seating areas the more people arrive to the
social group.
75

While observing people talking and socialising Creating a focal point in this dead space could
in other Third Places (such as bars and coffee be a way of aiding conversation. Giving people
shops), dead spaces were apparent between each something to gather around would in itself be an
social groups. People talked over this dead space, aid to socialisation and conversation.
sat around the outside of it and rarely interacted
with it. The only exception was when this dead Inspiration was gathered from world folklore and
space contained a table. cultural ideas for what this focal point could be.
76

77

4.4 Concept: Samovar
78

A samovar is a Russian communal kettle.
People have been gathering around them,
similar to the modern office water cooler for
over 200 years.
Having something that generates heat would be
a good aid to social interaction.
79

4.5 Concept: Pools
Another way of creating space where people
can interact would be around a lamp or under
a pool of light. This would create a boundary
within which people could interact and
socialise.
80

4.6 Concept: Touchy Feely
The idea that warmth is social and having a
low-level heat emitter as part of shared seating
would be a more tangible representation of
comfort and security than just light.
This means that users could share and interact
with the heat component using it to develop
relationships with each other.
81

4.7 Concept: Huddle
The Huddle seems to be an amalgamation of
all the more more sociable parts of the previous
concepts: Social seating that can interact with a
freestanding low-level heat emitting device.
It takes the idea of gathering from the Samovar
concept, plus the gathering that people do
round campfires--a metaphor that everybody
can understand. The idea of storytelling around
the campfire is deep-rooted in Western culture
and can easily be associated with the library
through silhouettes of well-known stories on
the heat emitter.
The light can flicker to represent the comfort of
firelight and could be controlled by the volume
level of local conversation. This would help
conversation by giving the users a need to talk,
which is the prime driver behind a Third Place.
The Huddle could be placed in the centre of a
social circle or even be incorporated with the
range of furniture for a more intimate setting.
82

83

4.8 Concept Evaluation
These concepts where evaluated against each These criteria were then placed into this chart
other using the following criteria based on the where each concept was assessed for each of
statement of needs, the relevant aspects of those these criteria and awarded a mark. The grading
conditions necessary for a Third Place and other range from -2 very bad through to 2 very good.
select design criteria:
» Aids conversation
» Comfort
» Reflects environment
» Focal point
» Inclusive
» Playful
» Fits Brief
Very Good[+2]
Development Opportunities
Re ects Environment
Aids Conversation
Good[+1]
Focal Point
Inclusive
Fits Brief
Comfort
Playful
Neutral
Bad[-1]
Very Bad[-2]
84

example
Concept Name Tetris
Concept Image
2 2
1 1 1
Concept Assessment -1 -2 -2
This idea is not very inclusive,
as you could not see the elderly
Concept Comments heaving shapes together to create
seating. Libraries are inclusive
places and so the furniture
should reflect that.
Concept Score
85

Tetris +one Samovar
2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
-1 -2 -2 0 -1 -2 -1 0 0 0
This idea is not very inclusive, Concept too similar to products Likelihood to encounter
as you could not see the elderly already existing on the market. a substantial amount of
heaving shapes together to create Health and Safety legislation
seating. Libraries are inclusive concerning the public and hot
places and so the furniture liquids.
should reflect that.
86

Pools Touchy-Feely Huddle
2 2 2 2 2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
0 0 0 0
Light is not tangible and it can Difficult to get a lot of people Could be construed as quirky.
be difficult to interact with light. around the same focal point.
87

4.9 Concept Summary
» Product A: Touchy-Feely
To assist in the evaluation of the concepts, the
concepts with the top two scores were rendered in
a CAD package and sent out to the experts (i.e.
librarians), plus a selection of people previously
interviewed as part of the research phase. They
were told that this was not the final concept but a
direction.
Two questions were asked:
» Which concept would you prefer to use?
» Why?
100% of the 20 replies voted for Product B, ‘Huddle’.
Sample comments were:
“Product B is more versatile and allows different numbers
and combinations of people to use it.”
Steve Wilkins, Graphic Designer. Does not visit
libraries.
88

» Product B: Huddle
“The first one you have to get closer so there is more
likely to be an invasion on personal space to get near the
Huddle.”
Sally Oliphant, Children’s Publisher. Does not visit
libraries.
“We also like to focus on the fire instead of focussing on
other person at points - especially when partaking in a bit
of philosophical activity!”
Dominic Murray, Company Secretary. Does not
visit libraries.
“The campfire likeness is familiar, if not fundamental,
to all people(whether they’ve actually sat next to one or
not).”
Dave Harrison, Musician. Visits libraries.
“In my mind, I would rather use product B... I like the
idea that you can pull up the stools ... around it, and
therefore arrange the space in a way that works for you
and your friends.”
Hélène Duranton, Coordinator, Visits libraries.
89

90

Development
+ Validation
5 91

5.1 Design Development
The Huddle come with two distinct units: The Scale models of the concept were created to help
Huddle itself, and social seating in the form of show how the product could work.
stools that can interact with the Huddle.
The Huddle itself could be branded with
images that could represent the surrounding
environment. In this case, scenes from classic
literature.
The Huddle also has a weight in the bottom
to assist stability. This would ensure that the
product would always return to the upright
position if knocked. This would also help protect
the internal electronics.
92

93

94

5.2 Ergonomics
The decision to have more than one form of
seating would be to make the product more Huddle
Heat Emitted around 30-35°C
inclusive. As libraries are inclusive places, it
would be necessary for the seating in libraries to Height 1000mm
be as well. The stools would cover most people Max Diameter 600mm
for informal seating, but the fact that the casual
chair would be more suitable for somebody older
or less-abled means that they too could enjoy the
social benefits of Huddle.
Stool
Width 600mm
Depth 800mm
Stool width, depth and height are all based on Height 450mm
Dreyfuss anthropometrics in order to allow for
the greatest percentile range of people to use it.
This has been supported by examining the
dimensions of stools already on the market.
95

5.3 Suggested Layouts
96

5.4 Materials
There are several factors that were taken into The orange colours of the Huddle were chosen
consideration when choosing materials for the because orange is a combination of red energy
Huddle: and happy yellow. It is a highly visible colour
and “increases oxygen supply to the brain…
» The seating had to be strong enough for stimulates mental activity. It is highly accepted
consistent use and hold a range of weights as among young people.” (QSX Software Group,
detailed by Dreyfuss. 2008)
» The seating and Huddle components need The British Standards that apply to the Huddle
the capability to be cleaned simply without are:
fear of damage to important components.
» BS EN 15373:2007 Furniture - Strength,
» The Huddle had to be resistant to the minimal durability and safety -Requirements for non-
heat that the components generated. domestic seating
The texture of the Huddle is similar to IKEA’s » BS 7176:2007 Specification for resistance to
energy efficient lightbulbs. They are slightly ignition of upholstered furniture for non-
textured and feel ‘rubbery’. This is another layer domestic seating by testing composites
of protection for the user from the heat source.
More importantly, this ‘rubbery’ feel makes the
Huddle more tactile for users to interact with.
97

Rigid Polypropylene with added fire retardents Cushion is a flexible polymer foam (medium
and stabilisers. Reinforced with glass. density). Created from polyurethane.
Melting point of 150°C
Vivid orange colouring
Translucent
Woven fabric.
Mottled effect to increase tactility
Orange coloured
Added fire retardent
Durable
Machine washable
Base of Huddle is weighted so it Rigid polypropylene with added fire retardents
returns to upright position. and stabilisers. Reinforced with glass.
Holds electronics and lithium Melting point of 150°C
cell battery. Heating element is Plain white
protected by ceramic holder. Opaque
Smooth
98

5.5 Electronics
99

There are similar products on the market that
could use similar technologies.
» The IKEA energy-saving lightbulb is warm
enough to the touch but still provides ample
light.
» The Panda Bear toy also involves an element
of portability plus colour changing LED
lights.
» The egg-shaped LED light flickers to resemble
a candle.
» The ceramic heat emitter is used in reptile
houses and can be controlled by a thermostat
to ensure it does not get too hot.
The Huddle unit could be charged overnight in a
shaped caddy, ready to be used and moved about
during the day.
Ceramic heaters can be as low as 24w
100

The diagram shows how the electronic elements
could fit together inside the Huddle.
101

5.6 Costing
Costing was worked out by examining similarly
made products already on the market and using
intelligent assumptions.
The stool: Polyethylene blow moulded stool
with fire retardent and upholstery £20.90 (EFM
Chesterfield, 2009)
The most expensive this stool could be would
be about £25.00.
102

The Huddle: Based on a lantern of similar size
with another 1/3 added on to consider the
heating element brings the cost of the Huddle to
around £350.00 (ModernMetropolis, 2009)
Since all the technology can be found in the
home, there is no reason to believe that daily
running costs will be expensive.
103

5.7 Competitor Analysis
Seating Heating
There are no exact competitors to this concept, The idea of gathering around a focal point could
but there are similar furniture, heaters and be seen in some garden furniture, but the style
places: and quality of the furniture would not be suitable
for a library environment. The smoke caused by
Current library furniture is standard, cheap and a chiminea would also not be suitable. The cost
straight out of an office catalogue. Jonathan Shale of a similar arrangement to above would be in
at Bristol City Council furniture procurement the region of £60.00 for the chiminea and £10.00
(jonathan.shale@bristol.gov.uk) confirmed that for each chairs. (diy.com, 2009)
current seating was bought out of a contract
catalogue. Similar furniture as shown here cost
£184.95 (Gresswell, 2009) per unit but do not
provide the associated social aspects that Huddle
would.
104

Third Places
Other current Third Places include coffee shops
and public houses. The advantages that these have
are that you can buy drink and food from these
places. This does lead to the uneasy obligation
to regularly purchase these things in order to use
these Third Places. The advantage that a library
has is that the place is free. You could, if you
wished, bring your own beverages. This marks
the library out as a far more economical place to
meet people. The warmth element of the Huddle
concept is also a suitable replacement for the
necessity of food and drink.
105

5.8 Concept Validations - The Librarian
“Hi Duncan, brilliant idea!
I would prefer to use product B and can see straightaway
how it could be used
I would prefer B because of the option to be used/shared
by more people. Additional stools/chairs can be added
as required so it is therefore more flexible.
It can be used in an informal situation, people gathering
and chatting in the library. In this situation, although
attractive to all ages, I can see it being popular with
young people, perhaps meeting together after school or
at weekends in the library. It would be good to give it
a name - meet you at the xxxxxx at 4pm for example.
Glo-fire is a good name but to promote it the library
could have a ‘competition’ and invite suggestions from
The Huddle design concept was given to Val
it’s customers. It would also be an opportunity to
O’Sullivan, children’s librarian for Hampshire
promote the Glo-fire and library by mentioning the
County Council in order to get an experts
competion plus a photo of the ‘Glo-fire’ in the local press.
perspective whether the concept would be
relevant in the context of a library.
It would also be useful in a ‘semi-formal’ situation. We
have adult and children’s reading groups in the library,
Val O’Sullivan
6 to 20 participants. It is normal to have the group
Children’s Librarian
in a circle to make discussion easier so this would be
Val.O’Sullivan@hants.gov.uk
a wonderful focal point and add interest if there are
Hampshire County Council
changes as there is more conversation. As a children’s
librarian with my young reading group I may end
Here is her reply in full:
up challenging them to reduce the flickering (they are
already quite vocal) or ask them to take it in turns to
make it flicker.
[…]
We also have rhyme times in our libraries (as language
is a precursor to reading) and depending on numbers
parents often sit with babies on their laps in a circle.
This would really be a singing round the campfire
106

situation - brilliant.
The unit also looks as though it would be fairly easily
portable which is very useful for library authorities who
for funding reasons may not be able to have as many
of these as they would wish and may need to transport
it between libraries to use at an variety of venues and
events. We often do outreach events in marquees etc.
and this would be a wonderful attraction in a ‘story/
rhyme’ corner at a library promotion event.
Excellent idea with a myriad of uses!!
[...]
Val”
107

Two Interior Designers
“Also, personally, I shy away from any techie sorts
of things like this as I think it takes away from the
conversation. Possibly this would work in a bar for 18 -
24’s but not in a library.
Looking at the image, Im wondering how long I could
sit there before I wanted to relax into a nice old chair -
there is no backs on the seats so how could I fully relax?
Perhaps if you are to design a meeting place at a
library, shouldn’t books be the focus? Somewhere you
can sit with friends and see books you have read and
recommend books to friends?
Chris Jones is a Director of Smith and Jones, a
creative 3-Dimensional Design Consultancy.
Chris Jones
chris@smithandjones.co.uk
0117 316 9415
Spike Island, Bristol
108

“Your furniture has the capacity to change a whole space
if it can be a catalyst for greater interaction. Your ‘third’
place will only come about when the furniture shapes the
way the whole building is used by starting other patterns
of use. This would be a interesting way to design a
building, from the furniture outwards.
-The concept of hand warming is great. The analogy
of the hearth or the fireplace is a very strong subliminal
draw for people and the flickering reminds me of
candlelight, gentle and approachable. I can see
this working really well in an external location. In Russell Ashdown is the owner of Remodel
Denmark cafes supply blankets so that people can still Design, sustainable interior design specialists.
eat and drink outside. Generally I like the way you are
appealing to primeval instincts inherent in most of us Russell Ashdown
and draw us together. russell@remodeldesign.co.uk
0117 330 8177
-The circular form of the pieces feels right. I actually Redland, Bristol
think restricting the number of people that can sit
around one focal point is beneficial. Too many people
can’t have one conversation or it becomes a shouting
match.
Stuff to think about;
-Conversation and libraries are not always welcome. It’s
no coincidence that most library furniture is designed
for solitary use, and your concept makes a distinct break
with this. In what sort of space would this furniture be
placed
-I’d be interested to see if you could incorporate the
idea of ‘learning’, in my view the main function of the
library, perhaps as a group through visual or audio
using the focal point. The hand warming idea looses it
relevance inside a building.
-How do you facilitate growth of the number of people
above three. I love the way a wide flight of steps can
allow tens of people to gather and interact. Can your
pieces be modular adding more to expand over an area
creating a series of ‘hearths’ for people. When you
visualise the design, it would be much more true to your
concept to show how the elements can grow. Does this
make sense?”
109

Council Procurement
“We’ve had a look at the designs and think they would
be particularly good for childrens areas of libraries where
they could be integrated into storytimes, also in cafe
areas if available.
Possibly a brighter glow rather than flickering would be
better to comply with DDA regs - some people may find
flickering lights disturbing.
It would certainly be a good talking point in libraries.”
Alison Weston, amongst other things, buys
furniture for libraries on behalf of Bristol City
Council.
Alison Weston
Procurement
alison.weston@bristol.gov.uk
0117 903 7211
Bristol City Council
110

Library User
“I like the fact that you can choose to be closer or further
away from the Huddle and that if you choose to be closer
to it that this is essentially like interacting with it as it
will respond to conversation by flickering. The idea that
the Huddle will also get brighter the closer people sit
would hopefully encourage conversation amongst people
sat there but not force it.
I like having control over the seating and how close or
far I sit from the Huddle and from other people. The
fact that the Huddle gives off hand warmth is also a
nice touch, being that I use the library as a Third Place
the warmth adds an aspect of comfort which is almost
impossible to find in public spaces.”
Angharad Williams,
Charity Worker
Angharad Williams uses libraries on a regular
basis. She always has.
Angharad Williams
Charity Worker
angharad.williams@treeaid.org.uk
07878 944 197
Bristol
111

5.9 Suggested Brand Platform
Huddle Social seating for the 21st Century library.
» Target Market:Foreign Students
» Insight: Informal Public Life
112

» Personality: Playful
» Benefits: Aids sociability
» Essence: Friends
113

5.10 Further Development
This product is not only suitable for aiding They could also be used as garden furniture for
conversation within the library environment. those slightly chilly autumn nights.
Because the material of the seating is very simple
to colour and because the Huddle can be easily
branded, there is a myriad number of future and
alternative uses for this seating concept.
Because the Huddle units are charged and
portable, they could be used outdoors at music
festivals where organisers would have less safety
concerns than with real fires.
114

There is no reason that the seating could be used Alternative Third Places such as coffee shops
as seating for exhibitions. The furniture and could also benefit from Huddle furniture.
Huddle could be branded to the exhibition giving
the space a casual seating area for visitors.
115

Val identified some excellent uses that had not
initially been thought of, showing that there
could be alternate uses for Huddle furniture.
The views of Chris Jones were very personal and
so had to be addressed cautiously, but they did
indicate that comfort and asthetic needed to be
looked at as future development.
Russell Ashdown also identified some future
development issues concerning the potential
need to restrict the number of users in order to
help conversation and the association of learning
with the furniture.
One of the more important development issues
came from Alison and Bristol City Council
concerning the compliance with DDA regulations
and flickering lights. This will have to checked
and addressed.
116

5.11 Summary
The benefits this social seating concept could Helping create a Third Place within a local
provide in a 21st Century library are twofold: community. This benefits the local community
by fostering a more creative interaction between
If somebody has a personal investment in a community members that would not normally
community then it has greater personal value to interact, leading to a strengthening of social
them (McMillan and George, 1986). Attendance cohesion. This is covered in detail by The Great
to the library as a Third Place to socialise, relax Good Place (Oldenberg, 1989). This design concept
and meet friends is a personal investment. This generates an environment that is conducive to
could lead to other existing library services being conversation, mingling and an informal public
used by people that previously had not used life.
them.
117

118

Appendix
119

Appendix A: Bibliography
Audit Commission. (2002) Building Better EFM Chesterfield (2009) Rectangular
Library Services. Polypropylene Stools [online] Available from:
http://websites.uk-plc.net/EFM_Chesterfield/
B&Q (2009) Warwick Dining Chair [online] products/Rectangular_Polypropylene_Stools.
Available from: http://www.diy.com Accessed htm Accessed on: 21 apr 09
on 21 apr 09
Fang, C. (2008) University Library: The “Third
Bennett, S., Demas, S., Freeman, G.T., Place” for Students. Nanjing University of
Frischer, B., Oliver, K.B., and Peterson, Science and Technology: Nanjing
C.A. (2005) Library as Place: Rethinking Roles,
Rethinking Space. Council on Library and Fuad-Luke, A (2004) The Eco-Design Handbook.
Information Resources: Washington DC Thames & Hudson: London
BS EN 15373:2007 Furniture – Strength, Granta Design (2009) CES 2009 Edupack
durability and safety – Requirements for non- [Computer Program] Available from: http://
domestic seating. www.grantadesign.com/education/index.htm
Accessed on: 19 apr 09
BS 7176:2007 Specification for resistance to
ignition of upholstered furniture for non- Goulding, A. (2006) Journal of Librarianship
domestic seating by testing composites. and Information Science, Public Libraries in
England: A valuable public service or a service in
Buckinghamshire City Council (2006) Bucks CC distress?
– Proposed Library Closures and their replacement
with alternative library services [online] Available Gresswell (2009) Easy Seating-Grangeline
from: www.buckscc.gov.uk/bcc/get//assets/ [online] Available from: OCFUN+LWGWWE
docs/cab_20060123_item6.pdf Accessed on: 31 B+LWGW025+GWP+ENG+FUNCPARMS+
oct 08 ZZWSESSID(A0200):02868092930066613737+
ZZWNAVPAG(A0100):PRODUCT+DATESE
CABE (2006) Better Public Building. On behalf of Q(A0140):42310914957 Accessed on: 23 apr 09
HM Government.
Grindlay, DJC., Morris, A. (2004) The decline
Carpenter, H. (2007) The role of public libraries in adult book lending in UK public libraries and its
in multicultural relationships. On behalf of the possible causes. I literature review. Department
Winston Churchill Memorial Trust of Information Science: Loughborough
University.
Dorling, D., Vickers, D., Thomas, B., Pritchard,
J. and Ballas, D. (2008) Changing UK – The Grindlay, DJC., Morris, A. (2004) The decline
way we life now. Social And Spatial Inequalities in adult book lending in UK public libraries and its
(SASI) group, Department of Geography: possible causes, II statistical analysis. Department
University of Sheffield of Information Science: Loughborough
University.
Dul, J., Weerdmeester, B. (2001) Ergonomics for
Beginners. Taylor and Francis: London Harris, K. (2003) Your Third Place or mine? Public
library and local communities. Public Library
Easton, M (2008) Life in UK ‘has become Journal, 18(2), 2003, p26-29.
lonelier’ BBC News [online] Available from:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7755641.stm Haworth, (2008) The Ergonomic Seating Guide
Accessed on: 1 dec 08 Handbook. Haworth: Washington DC
120

“Attempts to replace a local library with a mobile
library service at Avonmouth were met with very Parry, N (2003) Stimulating Growth and Renewal
strong local resistance.” IDeA peer review, Bristol of Public Libraries: The Natural Life Cycle as
City Council library services 5-7 July 2004, p15 Framework. [online] Available from: http://
www.ericdigests.org/2005-2/libraries.html
Infinitiy (2006) Haunted Flicker Light Accessed on: 28 sep 08
Adapter [online] Available from: http://www.
instructables.com/id/Haunted-Flicker-Light- QSX Software Group (2008) Colour Wheel Pro
Adapter/ Accessed on 18 apr 09 [Computer Program] Available from: http://
www.color-wheel-pro.com/color-meaning.html
Knight, A. (2008) Welcome to your library: Accessed on: 21 apr 09
Exploring the role of libraries as promoters of
health literacy and community cohesion. Healthy RS Catalogue (2008) 2. Electronic Components,
Hillingdon: Uxbridge Power & Connectors.RS: Corby
Leadbetter, C. (2003) How to create a modern Ryckman, R. M. (2007) Theories of Personality
public library system. On behalf of DEMOS. Wadsworth Publishing: Florence
Macdonald, M., & Kane, D. (2005) Public Savage, M. (2008) The Big Question: Does the
library services to refugees and asylum seekers in the decline in book lending spell the end for the public
North East. University of Central England library, The Independent, 16/01/08 [online]
Available from: http://www.independent.
McMillan, D.W., & Chavis, D.M. (1986). Sense co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/features/the-
of community: A definition and theory. Journal of big-question-does-the-decline-in-book-lending-
Community Psychology, 14(1), 6-23.) spell-the-end-for-the-public-library-770432.html
Accessed on: 5 august 08
ModernMetropolis (2009) Post-War Designer
Lighting [online] Available from: http://www. Strange, H.(2008) Public libraries told to innovate
modernmetropolis.com/post-war-designer- or die out, The Times, 06 mar 08 [online]
lighting/ Accessed on: 21 apr 09 Available from: http://entertainment.
timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_
MORI, (2002) Perceptions of Libraries. For the entertainment/books/art/public-libraries-told-
Audit Commission. to-innovate-or-die-out.htm Accessed on: 15 nov
08
National Opinion Research Center (1946)
What… Where… Why… do people read? Tilley, A., Dreyfuss, H. (2002) The Measure of
University of Denver Man and Woman: Human Factors in Design. John
Wiley & Sons Inc: Indianapolis
Oldenburg, R. (1989). The Great Good Place:
Cafes, Coffee Shops, Community Centers, Beauty UWE Library Services (2008) References – The
Parlors, General Stores, Bars, Hangouts, and How Harvard System [internet] http://www.uwe.
They Get You Through the Day. New York: ac.uk/library/resources/general/info_study_
Paragon House. skills/harvard2.htm Accessed on: 27 Nov 2008
Oldenburg, R. [ed] (2001) Celebrating the Third Wainwright, M (2003) Libraries blamed for their
Place. New York: Marlowe & Company own decline, The Guardian, 18/08/03 [online]
Available from: http://www.guardian.co.uk/
OCLC (2003) Environmental Scan “Library business/2003/aug/18/society.education
Landscape” [online] Available from: http:// Accessed on: 31 oct 08
www.oclc.org/reports/escan/toc.htm Accessed
on: 12 nov 08 Walter, C., DesRoches, D. (2008) The 21st
Century Teacher-Librarian. [online] Available
Page, B. (2008) There’s more to libraries than from: http://disruptiveinnovators.wikispaces.
lending, The Bookseller 2/8/08 issue 5318 p30-31. com Accessed on: 03 oct 08
121

Appendix B: Questionnaire 1
Can you help me? I’m doing a research project What do you think the main role of a public
about people’s expectations and thoughts on library is?
public libraries. I’d be really grateful if you
could answer the following questions EVEN Mainly, it is a resource that serves the local
IF you do not use public libraries yourself. community. Its role is to provide an environment
Amongst other things I need to compare user where you can find information on most areas of life
versus non-user expectations. that you might need, and know that you can order
in specific things if you can’t them find there. The
This should take no more than 5 minutes to comparatively recent introduction of internet access
complete. I have to write a report by the 30th adds to this role. Connected to this role is that it
november so i’d love it if I could get something provides a place, a haven from the busy world, where
back quickly. you can utilise the information and work in peace.
Its role demands that it also be a centre of local
demographic bit information too.
Age: teens, 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s+ Or something like that :-)
30’s What words from the following list best sum up
Sex: M/F your impression of a public library?
M * organised, yes
Have you ever been to a public library? Y/N * freedom, yes
Y * safety, yes
How frequently do you use your public library? * warm, yes
daily, weekly, monthly, annually, never? * funky, no
annually * stimulating, yes
Do you live in an urban or a rural * reflective, yes
environment? urban/rural
* noisy, no
Rural
* aimless, no
What transport could you use to get to your
nearest public library? * comfy, yes
Car, bike, bus (though limited as very rural), train. * communal, yes
Do you live in UK? Y/N * dark, no
Yes * helpful, yes
qualitative bit * convenient,yes
122

* depressing,no * world music, yes
* inclusive, yes * fiction books, yes
* private, yes * local history resources, yes
* formidable clarification needed: in the sense * maps, yes
of impressive, quality of resources etc. then yes; in the
sense of scary, off-putting then no. * books for sale, yes
What do you use a public library for? * notice board, yes
Information gathering, investigation, research, * photocopier, no,
borrowing books, time out for a quiet read/catching possibly
up in the news etc., buying 2nd hand books/cds etc.,
* seating, yes
finding local information (including council news,
etc.), * toilets, no
Why do you think a public library is the only * advice, on certain
free public space that is warm and sheltered and things.....
where you are left alone to pursue your own
thoughts and dreams? * books prescribed by doctors, yes
Interesting question, hadn’t ever thought of it like that. * social groups yes
In a sense, it is the very essence of what a library is,
it is over the border from the hustle and bustle of the * hot and cold drinks. no
outside world; a collection of silent words and dreams What services would make you use your public
that demand the respect of peace, consideration and library more?
study. Or something. On a more practical level, work
and study is far better carried out in peace, and this None
tradition is probably what most people associate with
libraries - the Shhh! factor. Which of the following statements do you
think relate to public libraries more? Why?
What services do you think your local public
library offers out of the following? * “[our]...mission is to organise the world’s
information and make it universally accessible
and useful.”
* TV news, no, * “To inspire and enable every individual
except through internet [...] to participate actively in the cultural,
economic and democratic life of the city
* free internet, yes through the exploitation of information,
* free computer lessons, yes learning opportunities, and the enjoyment of
books and other media.”
* free wifi, possibly,
don’t know but some probably do Definitely the 2nd statement - if you want to make
change, you have to arm yourself with information....
Thank you very much for your time. I’ll let
you know if anything interesting comes from
the research.
123

Appendix C: Questionnaire 2
Hello. Thank you very much for completing 7. How can YOU remain individual in a
part one of my questions. I have just a couple community? would YOU want to?
more questions for you in relation to the project
but more about public spaces known as ‘Third Everyone is an individual in a community. All you do
PlaceS’. This should also take under 5 minutes is be yourself.
to complete. don’t be over descriptive, just a
sentence or two is fine.
Just to let you know that your names will not
A Third Place is a place that is not work and
be associated with any replies or comments.
not home, but makes you feel safe and relaxed
with a sense of belonging.
1. Why would YOU need a place like this? Once again, thank you very much for your
time. I shall let you know of any interesting
As I have stresses and priorities at home and work to
results.
seek refuge from.
2. What would YOU like this ‘Third Place’
to contain? keep it to under 3 things.
Coffee, quiet, people to watch
3. How much would YOU pay to have access
to this ‘Third Place’?
I’d buy services there, but I doubt I’d pay an entrance
fee. If it were a nice garden I might pay two pounds.
4. What would YOU like to do to personalise
this ‘Third Place’ to your liking? keep it to
under 3 things.
Make a nice garden, some big windows and cubby
holes to get cosy in
5. In what way could this ‘Third Place’
reflect YOUR local community? imagine it is
at the end of your road.
Local artists’ work(s)
6. Why would meeting people in this ‘Third
Place’ be beneficial to YOUR community?
Because it would get people talking to each other and
finding common links and get people supporting one
another in numerous ways.
124

Appendix D: Concept Statements
Opportunity Opportunity
Protecting personal possessions whilst away To engage the local community in defining
from them in a library. their library in a way they will use.
Idea Idea
People who spend time working in a library People who have an investment in something
cannot leave their belongings to go and get tend to be more attracted to it. If there were a
another book or go to the bathroom without way to give the community the ‘kit’ to create
packing up all their things. the library they want, they would use it more.
Concept Concept
A product or service that would protect A product or service that gives people the
personal belongings from being stolen. opportunity to invest in their library.
Target Market Target Market
• Students All people within a specified catchment area to
a local library.
• Self Educatiors
Consumer Benefits
Consumer Benefits
Gives consumers a sense of belonging and pride
• Security in their community.
• Could increase attendance Likely Features
Likely Features Some form of collaborative interaction with
• Personal locking system service.
• analogue or digital Development Issues / Associated Risks
• Difficult to be all things for all people.
Development Issues / Associated Risks
• There will always be people not wanting
Need to work in situ possibly with a variety of
to participate.
possessions and in a variety of locations.
• No blank slate. Consumers must choose
Assumptions
from a series of components.
Better security leading to an increase in
Assumptions
attendance.
n/a
Technical Expertise
Technical Expertise
An expert in opportunistic theft or security.
• Council
• Community Support Officers
• NGO’s
• Library Designers
125

Opportunity Opportunity
To develop the library as a genuine To create a library that reflects and benefits
alternative community ‘Third Place’ to go the community it serves.
other than work or home.
Idea
Idea
Your bookshelf is a story of you. Can a series
Helping community cohesion by having a of public library bookshelves be a story of the
public place to be private in. community?
Concept Concept
A product or service that creates a Third Place A product or service that creates / displays
for the community to use. information concerning the local community.
Target Market Target Market
• All people within a specified catchment • All people within a specified catchment
area to a local library. area to a local library.
• Visitors to area. • Visitors to area.
• Foreign nationals. • Foreign nationals.
Consumer Benefits Consumer Benefits
• Sense of belonging. • Sense of belonging.
• Could lower crime rate. • Detailed information about area could
help important decision making.
• Community cohesion.
Likely Features
Likely Features
Individual way of displaying information about
An area that is like a home from home. the community.
Development Issues / Associated Risks Development Issues / Associated Risks
• Difficult to be all things for all people. • Information is only as accurate as the
data.
• There will always be people not wanting
to participate. • No blank slate. Possible abuse of
position.
Assumptions
Assumptions
n/a
Consumers will understand what the product /
Technical Expertise
service is trying to do.
• The Community
Technical Expertise
• Local Council
• The Community
• Experience Designers
• Information / Interaction Designers
126

Opportunity Opportunity
Design a service that helps marginalised Better ways of informing the public of library
groups (asylum seekers, unemployed, etc) services.
integrate into the community.
Idea
Idea
A lot of what libraries already do people do not
Asylum seekers are told to go to libraries, as it know about.
is a safe place that is not home.
Concept
Concept
A product or service that helps highlight what
A service that makes marginalised groups feel services the local library has.
more part of the community.
Target Market
Target Market
• Non-library / lapsed users
• Marginalised social groups
Consumer Benefits
• Community area
• Increased awareness as to what library
Consumer Benefits has to offer.
• Sense of belonging. • Increase footfall to libraries
• Detailed information about area could Likely Features
help important decision making.
• Innovative advertising campaign
Likely Features
Development Issues / Associated Risks
• Learning English
• Location of campaign.
• Learning about area
• Specific advertising to differing market
• Skills training segments.
Development Issues / Associated Risks Assumptions
• Possible resistance by community. Assuming that advertising campaign would be
successful.
• Sensitive area
Technical Expertise
Assumptions
• Marketing
Is already being done.
Technical Expertise
• Council and Immigration Services
• Welcometoyourlibrary.org.uk
127

Opportunity
Make libraries more accessible to parents with
children to help development and socialising.
Idea
If people go to libraries when they are young they
usually continue to go to libraries throughout
their life.
Concept
A product or service that aids children and
parents to socialise in a safe, community area.
Target Market
• Parents with children
• Children aged 0 thru 12
Consumer Benefits
• Better socialisation skills for children
• Support group for parents
Likely Features
• Public toilets
• Collaborative Events
Development Issues / Associated Risks
• Security around children
• 12 year old children have different needs to
3 year old children.
Assumptions
That parents will want their children to socialise
with people in the community.
Technical Expertise
• Junior Teachers
• Librarians
• Social Services
128

Appendix E: Screening Matrices
Opportunity: Protecting personal possessions whilst away
from them in a library.
Criteria 1 2 3 Rating
Novelty Familiar Somewhat Nothing
new similar 1
on market
Clear research to No chain Incomplete Explicit
concept chain* 3
Benefits match No match Some Fully
Needs matching matched 2
Possible within Impossible Likely Possible
time & resources 3
Believable Unbelievable Grounded Believable 2
Breakthrough Some Definite Definite
benefits improvement improvement improvement 1
in one benefit in one benefit in more than
one benefit
Know how available Uncertain Probably Definitely 2
Probability of Long shot 50 - 50 Good
success 2
Total 16
129

Opportunity: To engage the local community in defining their
library in a way they will use.
Criteria 1 2 3 Rating
Novelty Familiar Somewhat Nothing
new similar 2
on market
Clear research to No chain Incomplete Explicit
concept chain* 2
Benefits match No match Some Fully
Needs matching matched 3
Possible within Impossible Likely Possible
time & resources 2
Believable Unbelievable Grounded Believable 2
Breakthrough Some Definite Definite
benefits improvement improvement improvement 3
in one benefit in one benefit in more than
one benefit
Know how available Uncertain Probably Definitely 2
Probability of Long shot 50 - 50 Good
success 2
Total 18
Opportunity: To develop the library as a genuine alternative
community ‘third place’ to go other than work or home.
Criteria 1 2 3 Rating
Novelty Familiar Somewhat Nothing
new similar 3
on market
Clear research to No chain Incomplete Explicit
concept chain* 2
Benefits match No match Some Fully
Needs matching matched 3
Possible within Impossible Likely Possible
time & resources 2
Believable Unbelievable Grounded Believable 3
Breakthrough Some Definite Definite
benefits improvement improvement improvement 3
in one benefit in one benefit in more than
one benefit
Know how available Uncertain Probably Definitely 2
Probability of Long shot 50 - 50 Good
success 3
Total 21
130

Opportunity: To create a library that reflects and benefits the
community it serves.
Criteria 1 2 3 Rating
Novelty Familiar Somewhat Nothing
new similar 2
on market
Clear research to No chain Incomplete Explicit
concept chain* 3
Benefits match No match Some Fully
Needs matching matched 2
Possible within Impossible Likely Possible
time & resources 3
Believable Unbelievable Grounded Believable 3
Breakthrough Some Definite Definite
benefits improvement improvement improvement 2
in one benefit in one benefit in more than
one benefit
Know how available Uncertain Probably Definitely 2
Probability of Long shot 50 - 50 Good
success 3
Total 20
Opportunity: Design a service that helps marginalised groups
(asylum seekers, unemployed, etc) integrate into the
community.
Criteria 1 2 3 Rating
Novelty Familiar Somewhat Nothing
new similar 1
on market
Clear research to No chain Incomplete Explicit
concept chain* 3
Benefits match No match Some Fully
Needs matching matched 2
Possible within Impossible Likely Possible
time & resources 3
Believable Unbelievable Grounded Believable 3
Breakthrough Some Definite Definite
benefits improvement improvement improvement 3
in one benefit in one benefit in more than
one benefit
Know how available Uncertain Probably Definitely 2
Probability of Long shot 50 - 50 Good
success 2
Total 19
131

Opportunity: To create a library that reflects and benefits the
community it serves.
Criteria 1 2 3 Rating
Novelty Familiar Somewhat Nothing
new similar 2
on market
Clear research to No chain Incomplete Explicit
concept chain* 3
Benefits match No match Some Fully
Needs matching matched 2
Possible within Impossible Likely Possible
time & resources 3
Believable Unbelievable Grounded Believable 3
Breakthrough Some Definite Definite
benefits improvement improvement improvement 2
in one benefit in one benefit in more than
one benefit
Know how available Uncertain Probably Definitely 2
Probability of Long shot 50 - 50 Good
success 3
Total 20
Opportunity: Design a service that helps marginalised groups
(asylum seekers, unemployed, etc) integrate into the
community.
Criteria 1 2 3 Rating
Novelty Familiar Somewhat Nothing
new similar 1
on market
Clear research to No chain Incomplete Explicit
concept chain* 3
Benefits match No match Some Fully
Needs matching matched 2
Possible within Impossible Likely Possible
time & resources 3
Believable Unbelievable Grounded Believable 3
Breakthrough Some Definite Definite
benefits improvement improvement improvement 3
in one benefit in one benefit in more than
one benefit
Know how available Uncertain Probably Definitely 2
Probability of Long shot 50 - 50 Good
success 2
Total 19
132

Appendix F: Initial Top-line-brief
Background they use them or not.
• Over the last 10 years book borrowing
has fallen by 34% (Chartered Institute of Public
Opportunity
Finance and Accountability, 2008). • A product / service that engages the
local community to help create a valid Third
• 87% of respondents to a public Place used by, benefitting and reflecting that
consultation felt that a library closure would community.
affect them greatly (Buckinghamshire City
Council Government report, 2006)
• “Attempts to replace a local library with
a mobile library service at Avonmouth were
Idea
met with very strong local resistance.” (IDeA
• The library can be considered as a viable
peer review, 2004)
Third Place for the local community to use.
• “We need to move on from the
• If the local community had an
perception of libraries as merely depositories for
opportunity to invest and engage with this
books…” (John Rouse, Cabe, 2003)
Third Place they would be more likely use
other facilities there.
• “The growing recognition of Third
Places in relation to social capital and
• If this engagement reflected each user
community cohesion suggests an appropriate
then this could reflect the community as a
role for the public library movement seeking
whole and facilitate a community network for
to reaffirm its place in the network society.”
users and visitors.
(Harris, 2003)
• “…how it [a library] is being used for
positive interaction between people, connecting Product / Service
the people and the resources the library holds in
a way that enriches lives…” (Helen Carpenter, Outline Description
Director, welcometoyourlibrary.org, 2008)
• The product / service will give users the
opportunity to personalise their experience of
Insights the Third Place in an innovative way.
• Public libraries are in a unique position • These “personalisations” should create
to be a Third Place (not home, not work) within a strong sense of personal investment and
the community. facilitate interaction between community
• People still believe that a library should members.
be the centre of a community and have an
opinion on what a library should be whether
133

• Be intuitive to use so no handholding
Target Market
required.
• Can be used by ages 8-80.
• Portray information resulting from
The market can be segmented into the personalisation in a visually stimulating way.
following groups: • Give the ‘Cheers’ feeling: where
• Current library users everybody knows your name.
• Lapsed library users • Product / Service could be used as an
• Non-library users informal tourist centre as primary research
• Vulnerable sections of society verifies.
• Tourists and people new to the area
• Local councils that run the libraries
Likely features and
Consumer / technology
Customer / User •
•
Human interaction touchpoint.
Way of expressing the personalisation in
Benefits a simple analogue, digital or mechanical way.
• A way for users to experience what
• Will create a Third Place where people other users have expressed.
can go that is not work or home.
• Help introduce beneficial library
services to a new audience. Development issues
• Will make people feel part of a
community. and challenges
• Product / Service must not be a ‘use
User Needs
once’ novelty.
• Possible danger of information overload
The product / service must: for consumers / users.
• Allow the personalisation to be • Ability to appeal to a lot of different
represented in a way that other people can target markets.
interpret. • Product / Service must conform to any
• Allow the user to interact with product relevant standards.
/ service in an engaging or provocative way. • Ergonomic considerations to touchpoint.
• Facilitates community networking. • Additional considerations might be
• Give the Third Place a sense of identity. required for certain target segments such as
vulnerable users.
The product / service should:
• Be available for a subscription price of
£1.00 per day or under as primary research
verifies.
134

Assumptions
• Currently there is no cost limitation to
develop product / service.
• It is valuable to target several market
segments instead of targeting a narrow segment
because as a community third space it should
serve the whole community.
Technical expertise
required
• At this stage no technical expertise has
been identified.
Limitations
The scope of this product / service is
purposefully broad at this stage, however it is
limited by/to the following:
• Public libraries.
• The community being ‘local’ to the
library as defined by current local authority
library catchment areas.
135

Appendix G: Full Design Brief
Version 2_ 05 mar 09
3 Design
1 Product Mission
A system of seating that draws together the Requirements
changes in the nature of public libraries, the 3.1 Performance
need in the community for a Third Place Demands
and the art of conversation into a unified, » Must have a seated area at least 350mm x
integrated manner capable of being mass 350mm.
produced. » Seated area must be at least 350mm above
floor.
A product that aids the 21st century library
into becoming a valid Third Place. Wishes
Could be interacted with in an innovative way.
The product will give users the opportunity to
experience this Third Place in an innovative 3.2 Environment
way. Demands
This experience should facilitate interaction » To be used indoors in a public library.
between community members. » Allow the user to interact with product in
an engaging or provocative way.
The modern public library can be a valid » Facilitates community networking.
meeting and socialising place for the local » Give the Third Place a sense of identity.
community. One of the primary functions of a
Third Place is to aid conversation and so this Wishes
system of seating should help this function. » Can be moved about.
» Be intuitive to use so no handholding
The product could be casual seating that fits required.
round some sort of focal point and could hold » Can be interacted with in a visually
3-5 people. stimulating way.
» Give the ‘Cheers’ feeling: where everybody
The product could come in a range; combined knows your name.
together to give a unified look or as a single
unit. 3.3 Service life
Demands
» 12 months guarantee.
2 Project Mission
The purpose of this project is to design a form Wishes
of social seating that can go in a local urban » A significant part of the product can be
public library to help it become a Third Place recycled at end of service.
where visitors can relax and socialise.
3.4 Product lifespan
The designer is to question the entire concept Demands
of library seating and bring it to a new level. To » No information available
do this, the designer is to explore the human-
centred aspect of design and the way humans Wishes
can interact with the product in new and » Possibly new parts available so product can
innovative ways that could aid conversation, a remain contemporary.
key insight to what goes on in a Third Place.
3.5 Target product cost
Demands
136

» No information available
Wishes
Wishes » tbc
» Be free to use.
3.12 Conformance Standards and
3.6 Target selling price Specifications
Demands Demands
» No information available Product must conform to include:
» BS EN 15373:2007 Furniture – Strength,
Wishes durability and safety – Requirements for
» Sale price should be competitive with non-domestic seating.
current seating on the market. » BS 7176:2007 Specification for resistance to
ignition of upholstered furniture for non-
3.7 Quantity domestic seating by testing composites.
Demands
» tbc Wishes
Product must conform to include:
Wishes » BS EN ISO 9002
» tbc
3.13 Quality and Reliability
3.8 Competition Demands
Demands » Should be easily cleanable
» None
Wishes
Wishes » Quality finish
» Product must be of a competitive price.
3.14 Shelf Life
3.9 Shipping Demands
Demands » No information available
» Product should be wrapped in cardboard
and bound. Wishes
» Able to fit onto pallets. » No information available
Wishes 3.15 Company Constraints
» Product optimises shilling container space. Demands
» No information available
3.10 Assembled dimensions
Demands Wishes
» Each component of seating should be no » No information available
more than 2000mmx2000mmx2000mm.
3.16 Market Constraints
Wishes Demands
» Should be able to fit through normal sized » Affordable for purchase by public sector.
doorway.
Wishes
3.11 Weight » Easy transition onto other markets.
Demands
» Should be able to be moved by a single 3.17 Legal & IP Rights
person. Demands
137

» No information available
4 Contractual
Wishes
» No information available & Project
3.18 Installation
Demands
Management
» Product comes ready assembled.
» No installation required
Requirements
4.1 Deliverables
End April_ Project Justification hand-in
Wishes End May_ Project presentation
» No information available
4.1 Contractual Requirements
3.19 Disposal UWE can use all project-related
Demands documentation and models as promotional
» No information available material.
Wishes 4.3 Project Management Requirements
» Returned for recycling Contact Chris McCleave in first instance
concerning queries.
3.20 Manufacturing Constraints
Demands
» No information available
Wishes
» Mass customisation in at least 3 different
ways.
3.21 Customer / Consumers / End Users
Demands
» Will create a Third Place where people can
go that is not work or home.
» Help introduce beneficial library services to
a new audience.
» Will make people feel part of a community.
Wishes
» Able to be updated to stay fashionable with
current trends.
» Can be used by ages 8-80.
3.22 Product Brand Strategy
Demands
» No information available
Wishes
» No information available
138

Appendix H: Supervisor Meeting Records
139

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142

143

144

145

146

147

148

Honor Roll
Natalie Benwell
John Dobson
Christopher Hart
Duncan Iraci
Neil Jones
Christopher McCleave
Nikki, Mea & Indiana McKean
Colin Meloy
Alan Moore
Neal Stephenson
Hunter S Thompson
149

e: shout@duncanmckean.co.uk
w: duncanmckean.co.uk